Ted Cruz says Texas Senate race will be a "$200 million" fight

Updated on: August 24, 2026 / 10:43 AM EDT / CBS News

Ted Cruz says Texas Senate race will be a "$200 million" fight

TL;DR

  • Sen. Ted Cruz predicts the Texas Senate race will cost $200 million.
  • The race features Republican Ken Paxton against Democrat James Talarico.
  • The contest is significant for Senate control, with Republicans currently holding a narrow majority.
  • Cruz will campaign for Paxton and support him with his super PAC funds.
  • The Cook Political Report has moved the race's rating to 'toss-up'.
  • Cruz characterizes Talarico's record as 'extreme' and unsuited for Texas.