James Talarico, the Democratic U.S. Senate candidate, has raised $10 million since the March primary, far outpacing Republican rivals John Cornyn and Ken Paxton, who collectively garnered $4 million. The Democratic nominee’s haul includes $27 million since January, driven by small-dollar donations from 246 of Texas’ 254 counties. $1.5 million from venture capitalist Reid Hoffman and $500,000 each from hedge fund managers Stephen Mandel and Dr. Lisa Primus highlight Talarico’s appeal to national donors. Meanwhile, Cornyn and Paxton remain locked in a contentious runoff until May 26, with Cornyn holding $10 million in combined reserves but facing scrutiny over his conservative credentials.

Paxton, accused of corruption and adultery, claims his campaign is now financially stronger. The race underscores Texas’ political divide: Talarico, a state representative, aims to break a 30-year Republican stronghold, while Republicans argue Cornyn is the only candidate to defeat him in November. $13 million separates Talarico’s total raised from the GOP duo’s combined $22 million, reflecting shifting donor priorities ahead of the November general election.