The Congresswoman is positioning herself as a “battle-tested” candidate capable of winning a statewide race and flipping a seat Republicans have held since 1994.
HOUSTON — Early voting begins Tuesday in the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate, and the race is intensifying as candidates compete for the chance to challenge Republican Sen. John Cornyn in November.
Among them is Jasmine Crockett, a two-term congresswoman who has built a national profile as an outspoken voice in Congress. Now, she’s asking Texas Democrats to nominate her for the statewide race.
Crockett acknowledges many voters know her from viral moments on Capitol Hill, but says there’s more to her record.
“I’m bigger than a meme,” Crockett said. “I do have substance, and I work across the aisle for the benefit of Texans all the time.”
Considered by some Democrats to be a rising star in the party, Crockett says her experience in Washington has prepared her for a tough statewide campaign and for taking on Republicans.
“We’re going to need someone that we know is battle-tested, someone who has been ridiculed, attacked, demeaned, yet is still standing,” Crockett said. “We are going to need a warrior.”
She says the issues she hears most from voters center on housing costs, food prices, and wages.
“It’s affordability, hands down,” Crockett said.
Crockett’s campaign launched its first major television ad buy last week. Her opponent in the Democratic primary, state Rep. James Talarico, has so far outraised her, but Crockett says winning will take more than just fundraising.
“I don’t think money alone is going to be able to win it for Democrats,” Crockett said.
Recent polling from the University of Houston shows Crockett leading Talarico by eight points in the March primary, though about 12% of voters remain undecided.