The War Room
An unparalleled, comprehensive look into the most important campaigns of the 2020 elections
State Races
- Senate District 19
- House District 45
- House District 47
- House District 52
- House District 65
- House District 66
- House District 92
- House District 93
- House District 102
- House District 105
- House District 108
- House District 112
- House District 113
- House District 114
- House District 115
- House District 132
- House District 136
- House District 138
Notes: Asterisk (*) indicates incumbent.
All filings for state races are from the period covering 9/25/2020-10/24/2020.
All federal races are from the pre-general election filing covering the period of 10/1/2020-10/14/2020.
State Races
Senate District 19
Current: Pete Flores (R-Pleasanton)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Contributions | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pete Flores (R)* | $1,331,838.93 | $1,492,851.41 | $0.00 | $134,252.77 |
| Roland Gutierrez (D) | $175,530.40 | $260,460.05 | $0.00 | $237,753.95 |
| Jo-Anne Valdivia (L) | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
Background
Incumbent Sen. Pete Flores (R-Pleasanton) won the 2018 special election over Democrat Pete Gallego. The seat was vacated by former Sen. Carlos Uresti (D-San Antonio) who was indicted for operating a Ponzi scheme. After a primary runoff, Democrats nominated state Rep. Roland Gutierrez (D-San Antonio) to face Flores in the general election. Flores is the first Republican to hold that seat since Reconstruction.
Coverage
- Roland Gutierrez Secures Democratic Nomination to Challenge State Sen. Pete Flores
- Battleground 2020: State Sen. Pete Flores’ Democratic Challenger Threatens Republican Supermajority
- Senator Pete Flores’ Quiet ‘Regular Guy’ Approach Resonates on District Tour
- Texas Battleground: Sen. Pete Flores’ Race Will Be One of the Most-Watched
Last updated: October 27, 2020
House District 45
Current: Erin Zwiener (D-Driftwood)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Contributions | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Erin Zwiener (D)* | $334,928.25 | $730,721.66 | $0.00 | $197,396.59 |
| Carrie Isaac (R) | $186,519.24 | $1,056,040.34 | $0.00 | $76,080.94 |
Polling
The district is rated by Rice University fellow Mark P. Jones as “Lean Democratic.”
Background
The district in Hays and Blanco counties between Austin and San Antonio, has been held securely by both Republicans and Democrats in the recent past. After Republican Jason Isaac held the seat from 2010-2018 and decided to run for Congress rather than re-election, Democrat Erin Zwiener won the seat by a slight 3.2 percent margin. With a presidential election this year, Republicans are seeking to take back the seat with the nomination of Carrie Isaac, Jason’s wife.
Coverage
- Carrie Isaac, Justin Berry Win GOP Runoffs, Will Face Democrat Incumbents in November
- Republicans Looking to Unseat Rep. Erin Zwiener in Texas House Share Top Policy Priorities
- Battleground 2020: Republican Candidates in House District 45 Seek to Take Seat Back from Rep. Zwiener
- Texas Battleground: House District 45 In Play After Turning Blue in 2018
Last updated: October 27, 2020
House District 47
Current: Vikki Goodwin (D-Austin)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Contributions | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vikki Goodwin (D)* | $426,055.53 | $412,738.32 | $10,000.00 | $90,053.18 |
| Justin Berry (R) | $199,607.49 | $1,229,113.36 | $0.00 | $140,023.72 |
| Michael Clark (L) | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
Polling
The district is rated by Rice University fellow Mark P. Jones as “Lean Democratic.”
Background
Incumbent Rep. Vikki Goodwin (D-Austin) upset the incumbent GOP representative in 2018 by 5,000 votes. Goodwin will face Austin police officer Justin Berry on the ballot in November.
Goodwin has the advantage of incumbency but there is no track record to look back on showing the district has turned any shade of blue. She hopes 2018 was not an anomaly but also won’t have the benefit of a high-profile U.S. Senate candidate driving millions of dollars to the suburbs and voters to the polls.
Coverage
- Carrie Isaac, Justin Berry Win GOP Runoffs, Will Face Democrat Incumbents in November
- Five GOP Primary Candidates in West Austin House District Outline Policy Agenda Ahead of Super Tuesday
- Battleground 2020: Five HD 47 GOP Primary Candidates Sprinting to the Finish, Winner Faces Rep. Goodwin
- Texas Battleground: House District 47 Flipped Blue in 2018 and Will Be Contentious Again in 2020
- Justin Berry, Candidate for HD 47, on The Texan’s Podcast
- Jennifer Fleck, Candidate for HD 47, on The Texan’s Podcast
- VIDEO: Aaron Reitz, Candidate for HD 47, on The Texan’s Podcast
- VIDEO: Don Zimmerman on The Texan’s Podcast
Last updated: October 27, 2020
House District 52
Current: James Talarico (D-Round Rock)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Contributions | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| James Talarico (D)* | $265,891.84 | $313,093.04 | $0.00 | $151,887.08 |
| Lucio Valdez (R) | $35,239.65 | $347,892.99 | $0.00 | $4,764.67 |
Polling
The district is rated by Rice University fellow Mark P. Jones as “Lean Democratic.”
Background
With only one candidate from each party running, the race will be unaffected by the primaries on March 3. The seat may prove to be competitive in the general election, though, as the district is one of the 12 that Democrats flipped in 2018.
Last updated: October 27, 2020
House District 65
Current: Michelle Beckley (D-Carrollton)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Contributions | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michelle Beckley (D)* | $441,504.09 | $483,933.39 | $0.00 | $51,900.16 |
| Kronda Thimesch (R) | $167,093.75 | $891,291.43 | $10,000.00 | $152,358.76 |
Polling
The district is rated by Rice University fellow Mark P. Jones as a “Toss Up.”
Background
Michelle Beckley was one of the 12 Democratic candidates in 2018 to flip a seat. In the general election, Beckley will face the Republican nominee, Kronda Thimesch.
Coverage
- Battleground 2020: Michelle Beckley’s Denton County State House Seat Top Target For GOP
- The Back Mic: A List of Victory Margins in the Texas House’s Most Competitive Seats
- The Back Mic: Fundraising Numbers in the 12 House Districts Democrats Flipped in 2018
Last updated: October 27, 2020
House District 66
Current: Matt Shaheen (R-Plano)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Contributions | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Matt Shaheen (R)* | $247,567.70 | $864,188.00 | $122,000.00 | $225,394.00 |
| Sharon Hirsch (D) | $380,109.91 | $470,984.33 | $0.00 | $117,182.34 |
| Shawn Jones (L) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Polling
The district is rated by Rice University fellow Mark P. Jones as a “Toss Up.”
Background
In 2018, Shaheen narrowly edged out Democratic challenger Sharon Hirsch by fewer than 400 votes. This year, he’ll face Hirsch again in the general election.
Coverage
Last updated: October 27, 2020
House District 92
Current: Jonathan Stickland (R-Bedford) (Retiring)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Contributions | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jeff Cason (R) | $257,828.84 | $392,535.99 | $5,000.00 | $108,596.17 |
| Jeff Whitfield (D) | $363,145.50 | $461,839.15 | $19,700.00 | $108,248.01 |
| Brody Mulligan (L) | $851.67 | $246.50 | $750.00 | $369.20 |
Polling
The district is rated by Rice University fellow Mark P. Jones as “Lean Republican.”
Background
With Jonathan Stickland announcing his retirement after holding the seat since 2012, conservatives vied for the chance to replace Stickland’s strong voice within the community and among his conservative base. Jeff Cason led the pack in the March primary and emerged as the GOP nominee with 54 percent of the vote. Cason is well-known in the community and has garnered strong support from a number of grassroots organizations, including Texas Right to Life and Texas Home School Coalition. He also earned an endorsement from Tarrant County Sheriff Bill Waybourn.
Democrats nominated Jeff Whitfield in the primary.
Coverage
- Five Candidates Seek to Replace Retiring Rep. Jonathan Stickland, Here’s Where They Stand on the Issues
- Battleground 2020: Jonathan Stickland’s Vacant House Seat to be Defining Race
- State Rep. Jonathan Stickland Announces Retirement
Last updated: October 27, 2020
House District 93
Current: Matt Krause (R-Fort Worth)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Contributions | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Matt Krause (R)* | $553,160.59 | $559,874.42 | $0.00 | $114,264.49 |
| Lydia Bean (D) | $469,935.15 | $643,993.52 | $0.00 | $98,650.60 |
Polling
This district is rated by Rice University fellow Mark P. Jones as “Likely Republican.”
Background
Incumbent Matt Krause has represented House District 93 for four terms, beating his Democratic opponent in 2018 by a margin of seven points. After earning her PhD at Harvard and going on to teach at Baylor University, Lydia Bean launched a campaign to challenge the prominent incumbent, advocating for fully funding public schools and Medicaid expansion.
Coverage
Last updated: October 27, 2020
House District 102
Current: Ana-Maria Ramos (D-Richardson)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Contributions | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ana-Maria Ramos (D)* | $51,620.23 | $121,595.95 | $310.41 | $102,575.18 |
| Linda Koop (R) | $92,642.47 | $425,145.59 | $0.00 | $123,698.46 |
Polling
The district is rated by Rice University fellow Mark P. Jones as “Likely Democratic.”
Background
In 2018, Ana-Maria Ramos, a Democrat, unseated Republican Rep. Linda Koop from the district. This year, Koop is seeking to take the seat back. Koop received the endorsement of Gov. Greg Abbott during the Republican primary.
Last updated: October 27, 2020
House District 105
Current: Terry Meza (D-Irving)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Contributions | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Terry Meza (D)* | $42,725.44 | $44,265.60 | $0.00 | $71,082.49 |
| Gerson Hernandez (R) | $33,755.92 | $14,445.20 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Bret Bolton (L) | $50.00 | $201.09 | $0.00 | $200.00 |
Polling
The district is rated by Rice University fellow Mark P. Jones as “Likely Democratic.”
Background
In 2016, Terry Meza ran against Republican incumbent Rodney Anderson and lost. In 2018, Meza ran against Anderson once again and Democrats regained control of the seat. She won with 55 percent of the vote, and will face off against just one challenger this cycle, Republican Gerson Hernandez.
Coverage
Last updated: October 27, 2020
House District 108
Current: Morgan Meyer (R-Dallas)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Contributions | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Morgan Meyer (R)* | $682,834.47 | $701,100.35 | $0.00 | $212,049.91 |
| Joanna Cattanach (D) | $682,988.69 | $515,779.37 | $0.00 | $141,120.83 |
| Ed Rankin (L) | $0.00 | $867.21 | $0.00 | $867.21 |
Polling
The district is rated by Rice University fellow Mark P. Jones as a “Lean Democratic.”
Background
Meyer had one of the thinnest 2018 margins of victory winning re-election by 220 votes. In 2020, he’ll likely face Democratic challenger Joanna Cattanach for a rematch.
Coverage
- Three Democrats Battle for Nomination to Face Republican Rep. Morgan Meyer in Dallas House Race
- The Back Mic: A List of Victory Margins in the Texas House’s Most Competitive Seats
Last updated: October 27, 2020
House District 112
Current: Angie Chen Button (R-Richardson)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Contributions | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angie Chen Button (R)* | $803,946.19 | $1,514,896.79 | $0.00 | $415,864.65 |
| Brandy Chambers (D) | $867,072.57 | $1,035,493.67 | $0.00 | $134,160.73 |
| Shane Newsom (L) | $793.00 | $50.00 | $0.00 | $50.00 |
Polling
The district is rated by Rice University fellow Mark P. Jones as a “Toss Up.”
Background
Angie Chen Button won re-election in 2018 by just over 1,000 votes. This year she will face Democrat Brandy Chambers for a rematch.
Coverage
- Battleground 2020: Rep. Angie Chen Button Set to Face Off Against Brandy Chambers Once Again
- The Back Mic: A List of Victory Margins in the Texas House’s Most Competitive Seats
Last updated: October 27, 2020
House District 113
Current: Rhetta Bowers (D-Garland)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Contributions | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhetta Bowers (D)* | $372,770.42 | $366,298.72 | $0.00 | $46,161.99 |
| Will Douglas (R) | $390,960.49 | $1,313,162.45 | $0.00 | $140,091.85 |
Polling
The district is rated by Rice University fellow Mark P. Jones as “Lean Democratic.”
Background
Rhetta Bowers defeated Republican Jonathan Boos in 2018 with 53 percent of the vote, making House District 113 one of the 12 districts that Democrats gained control of. She’ll face off against one challenger this cycle, Republican Will Douglas.
Coverage
- Rep. Rhetta Bowers Faces Stiff Competition from Republican Will Douglas in North Texas
- The Back Mic: Fundraising Numbers in the 12 House Districts Democrats Flipped in 2018
Last updated: October 27, 2020
House District 114
Current: John Turner (D-Dallas)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Contributions | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| John Turner (D)* | $440,303.56 | $173,372.79 | $7,000.00 | $154,439.78 |
| Luisa del Rosal (R) | $229,046.01 | $438,437.39 | $10,000.00 | $103,621.15 |
Polling
The district is rated by Rice University fellow Mark P. Jones as “Lean Democratic.”
Background
This seat, formerly held by Republican Jason Villalba, was secured by Democrat John Turner in 2018 with 56 percent of the vote. Turner will face Republican Luisa del Rosal this cycle. Rosal, an executive director at Southern Methodist University, has received the endorsement of Governor Abbott.
Coverage
Last updated: October 27, 2020
House District 115
Current: Julie Johnson (D-Carrollton)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Contributions | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Julie Johnson (D)* | $87,403.41 | $122,437.69 | $0.00 | $314,794.00 |
| Karyn Brownlee (R) | $50,604.98 | $65,233.62 | $11,000.00 | $48,754.88 |
Polling
The district is rated by Rice University fellow Mark P. Jones as “Likely Democratic.”
Background
Freshman representative Julie Johnson (D-Carrollton) became famous after torpedoing the “Save Chick-fil-A” bill by point of order on House-deadline day. But her biggest victory came in 2018, upsetting then-incumbent GOP Rep. Matt Rinaldi by just under 10,000 votes.
She will face consultant/activist Karyn Brownlee. This was one of the 12 Texas House races that flipped in 2018.
Coverage
- The Back Mic: Fundraising Numbers in the 12 House Districts Democrats Flipped in 2018
- Texas State Battleground Races Take Shape with Early Fundraising
- EXCLUSIVE: Former State Representative Matt Rinaldi Will Not Run For His Old Seat
Last updated: October 27, 2020
House District 132
Current: Gina Calanni (D-Katy)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Contributions | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gina Calanni (D)* | $560,592.50 | $574,125.88 | $0.00 | $114,411.89 |
| Mike Schofield (R) | $183,508.72 | $1,023,307.37 | $0.00 | $86,982.09 |
Polling
The district is rated by Rice University fellow Mark P. Jones as a “Toss Up.”
Background
Rep. Calanni (D-Katy) unseated incumbent Republican Mike Schofield. She’ll likely face Schofield again in a rematch this November. While Calanni has outraised Schofield this cycle, he still has a lot of money left over from his past campaigns.
Governor Abbott endorsed Angelica Garcia early on before Schofield decided to jump into the race. Garcia hopes the endorsement, her head start in campaigning, and her solid fundraising haul herself can pull her across the finish line on Super Tuesday for an upset in the primary.
Calanni won by just over 100 votes in 2018, so Republicans are optimistic this seat can be flipped back in November.
Coverage
- The Back Mic: Fundraising Numbers in the 12 House Districts Democrats Flipped in 2018
- Battleground 2020: Texas State Races Take Shape as Filing Deadline Closes
Last updated: October 27, 2020
House District 136
Current: John Bucy (D-Austin)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Contributions | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| John Bucy (D)* | $140,993.97 | $162,916.63 | $46,375.00 | $43,234.35 |
| Mike Guevara (R) | $10,491.87 | $28,539.74 | $2,000.00 | $7,558.11 |
| Brian Elliott (L) | $37.91 | $175.00 | $0.00 | $793.10 |
Polling
The district is rated by Rice University fellow Mark P. Jones as “Likely Democratic.”
Background
Bucy likely has one of the easiest paths to re-election of the 12 seats Democrats flipped in 2018. With a significant war chest and a poorly funded GOP opponent, Bucy is set up well to return for the 87th Legislature.
Coverage
- The Back Mic: Fundraising Numbers in the 12 House Districts Democrats Flipped in 2018
- Battleground 2020: Texas State Races Take Shape as Filing Deadline Closes
Last updated: October 27, 2020
House District 138
Current: Dwayne Bohac (R-Houston) (Retiring)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Contributions | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lacey Hull (R) | $170,856.67 | $1,149,912.36 | $0.00 | $136,841.32 |
| Akilah Bacy (D)^ | $592,233.28 | $779,816.60 | $0.00 | $153,692.83 |
Polling
The district is rated by Rice University fellow Mark P. Jones as “Lean Democratic.”
Background
With the retirement of Rep. Dwayne Bohac (R-Houston), who won his last election by only 47 votes, Democrats are aiming to win the district this year with the nomination of Akilah Bacy.
The Republican primary was wrought with some chaos after Democratic candidate Josh Wallenstein questioned the eligibility of Republican Josh Flynn’s candidacy. The Harris County Republican Party determined that Flynn was “not eligible” and Flynn followed up with a lawsuit. But despite the turbulence in the race surrounding Flynn’s eligibility, another Republican, Lacey Hull, emerged as the nominee with 59 percent of the vote in March.
Coverage
- Lacey Hull Victorious in GOP Primary, Democrats Head to Runoff in Contest to Replace Bohac
- Houston-Area State House Race a Focal Point for Republicans and Democrats in 2020
- Eligibility Dispute in House Primary Race Roils Harris County Republicans
- The Back Mic: An Overview of This Week’s Political Endorsements
Last updated: October 27, 2020
Federal Races
U.S. Senate
Current: John Cornyn (R)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Receipts | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| John Cornyn (R)* | $5,553,329.81 | $1,316,255.42 | $0.00 | $3,803,468.12 |
| MJ Hegar (D) | $5,329,215.09 | $3,683,261.75 | $0.00 | $6,859,972.67 |
| Kerry McKennon (L) | $1,467.63 | $2,125.00 | $0.00 | $4,469.20 |
| David Collins (G) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Polling
- Morning Consult: Conducted Oct. 11-20
- Cornyn: 46%
- Hegar: 41%
- Cygnal: Conducted Oct. 18-19
- Cornyn: 48.9%
- Hegar: 40.8%
- McKennon: 2.8%
- Collins: 0.6%
- Undecided: 6.9%
- Quinnipiac: Conducted Oct. 16-19
- Cornyn: 49%
- Hegar: 43%
- Someone Else: 1%
- Don’t Know: 7%
- UT/Texas Tribune: Conducted Sept. 25-Oct. 4
- Cornyn: 50%
- Hegar: 42%
- McKennon: 3%
- Someone Else: 5%
- UMass Lowell: Conducted Sept. 18-25
- Cornyn: 50%
- Hegar: 40%
- Another Candidate: 1%
- Undecided: 9%
- Quinnipiac: Conducted Sept. 17-21
- Cornyn: 50%
- Hegar: 42%
- Don’t Know: 7%
- The New York Times/Siena College: Conducted Sept. 16-21
- Cornyn: 43%
- Hegar: 37%
- McKennon: 4%
- Not Voting: 2%
- Don’t Know/Refused: 14%
- CBS News/YouGov: Conducted Sept. 15-18
- Cornyn: 46%
- Hegar: 41%
- Someone else: 3%
- Unsure: 10%
Coverage
- Trump, Biden Tied in New Texas Quinnipiac Poll, Cornyn Up 6 Points in Senate Race
- Cornyn, Hegar Senate Race Tightens Ahead of Election
- MJ Hegar Wins Democratic Nomination to Challenge Sen. John Cornyn
- Sen. John Cornyn Pulls in $3.5 Million Fundraising Haul
- MJ Hegar, Ronny Jackson Lead Federal Fundraising in Pre-Runoff Filing
- MJ Hegar and Royce West Debate for Democratic Nomination to Challenge Sen. John Cornyn
- John Cornyn Maintains Wide Fundraising Lead in U.S. Senate Race, Followed by MJ Hegar, Royce West
- Campaigns Paused Due to the Coronavirus Find Ways to Campaign Safely, Volunteer
- Brady PAC Endorses MJ Hegar in Senate Race
- MJ Hegar, Royce West Runoff Will Determine John Cornyn’s Senate Challenger
- Democratic Senate Candidates Struggle to Stand Out Against Cornyn
- New Texas Poll Reveals High Approval Rating for Abbott, Hegar Leading Anemic Senate Primary
- The Back Mic: Here’s a List of TV Ads from Texas Candidates
- Cornyn Leads the Pack in Third Quarter Campaign Fundraising Hauls
- MJ Hegar Leads in Field of Divided Democratic Senate Candidates
- Battleground 2020 Update: Cornyn, Putnam, Pfluger, and Hunt Boast Big Fundraising Numbers for Third Quarter
- BREAKING: State Senator Pat Fallon Will Explore Challenging John Cornyn for U.S. Senate
- Battleground 2020 Update: Candidates Running in Some Hotly Contested Texas Races
- Texas Battleground: The Competition for Sen. John Cornyn’s Senate Seat Is Heating Up
- Senator Cornyn and MJ Hegar Tout Second Quarter Fundraising Hauls
- Prominent Races Show Texas Democrats More Reliant on Out of State Funding than Republicans
- Royce West Will Seek Democratic Nomination to Challenge John Cornyn’s Senate Seat
- Joaquin Castro Will Not Run for U.S. Senate
Last updated: October 22, 2020
Congressional District 2
Current: Dan Crenshaw (R)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Receipts | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dan Crenshaw (R)* | $1,526,970.63 | $1,433,092.46 | $0.00 | $3,565,501.98 |
| Sima Ladjevardian (D) | $866,128.77 | $268,866.77 | $50,000.00 | $132,020.14 |
| Elliott Scheirman (L) | $2,116.83 | $295.00 | $0.00 | $1,692.03 |
Polling
Cook Political Report rates the district as “Likely Republican.”
Background
Incumbent Dan Crenshaw has represented Texas’ 2nd District since defeating Democratic candidate Todd Litton in 2018 by a margin of 7 points. The retired U.S. Navy Seal has gained public attention at both the state and federal levels for his stances on border security, immigration reform, and involvement in the local community of Houston.
Sima Ladjevardian, the Democratic nominee, is a Houston attorney and Democratic fundraiser who served as an adviser to for Beto O’Rourke’s bid for the presidency.
Coverage
- Dan Crenshaw, Wendy Davis Top House Fundraising in July Quarterly Filing
- Rep. Dan Crenshaw Kicks Off Re-election Bid to Enthusiastic Crowd, Calls Dem Price Control Bill ‘Insane’
- Secretary Carson, Rep. Crenshaw Tour Houston Homeless Shelter, Emphasize Faith and Community
- Dan Crenshaw’s First Annual Youth Summit Features Nikki Haley, Roger Clemens
- Dan Crenshaw Talks Guns, Healthcare, and Immigration at Houston Town Hall
- VIDEO: Congressman Dan Crenshaw and Konni Burton on The Texan’s Podcast
Last updated: October 22, 2020
Congressional District 6
Current: Ron Wright (R)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Receipts | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ron Wright (R)* | $135,878.50 | $70,790.24 | $0.00 | $172,669.06 |
| Stephen Daniel (D) | $150,006.48 | $41,540.51 | $0.00 | $53,759.69 |
| Melanie Black (L) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Polling
Cook Political Report rates the district as “Likely Republican.”
Background
Freshman Congressman Ron Wright won election in 2018 by over seven percent. In 2020, he’ll face attorney Stephen Daniel in the general election. Wright is a former Tarrant County Tax Assessor-Collector.
Coverage
N/A
Last updated: October 22, 2020
Congressional District 7
Current: Lizzie Fletcher (D)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Receipts | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lizzie Fletcher (D)* | $940,165.11 | $251,560.58 | $0.00 | $911,039.34 |
| Wesley Hunt (R) | $1,388,433.97 | $562,356.78 | $0.00 | $529,808.19 |
| Shawn Kelly (L) | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 |
Polling
Cook Political Report rates the district as “Likely Democratic.”
Sabato’s Crystal Ball rates the district as “Likely Democratic.”
Background
Freshman Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher faces off against GOP challenger Wesley Hunt. Fletcher flipped the seat from red to blue in 2018 but must carve out her own approach in a district that is not a safe blue one. The 7th Congressional District is widely considered one of the foremost energy hubs in the country.
Coverage
- Energy Policy Clash Looms in Houston Battleground Congressional District
- Brady PAC to Push for Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, Texas Democrats in 2020
- GOP PAC Plans $3.1 Million Texas Ad Buy for Wesley Hunt Congressional Campaign
- Wesley Hunt Wins GOP Congressional Primary in Rout, Will Face Rep. Fletcher in November
- Rep. Lizzie Fletcher Hosts Town Hall, Discusses Priorities and Impeachment
- Packed Houston Forum Features Republicans Looking to Unseat Freshman Fletcher
Last updated: October 22, 2020
Congressional District 10
Current: Michael McCaul (R)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Receipts | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michael McCaul (R)* | $664,901.00 | $181,288.71 | $0.00 | $686,756.39 |
| Michael Siegel (D) | $430,822.46 | $380,303.77 | $0.00 | $234,849.97 |
| Roy Eriksen (L) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Polling
Cook Political Report rates this district as “Lean Republican.”
Sabato’s Crystal Ball rates this district as “Leans Republican.”
Background
District 10 had been a safe Republican seat until 2018 when incumbent Rep. McCaul only amassed 51.1 percent of the vote against Democratic challenger Mike Siegel. Now, McCaul will face Siegel in the general election once again.
This race will serve as a good guage for the shelf-life of the 2018 so-called “Blue Wave.” If the district remains close — or if the Democrats flip the seat — without the kind of money and attention 2018 Senate candidate Beto O’Rourke brought to Texas’ suburbs, then 2018 was more than just an anomaly. If not, and the district trends back toward elections past, then McCaul’s seat will be safe and the “Blue Wave” will be widely considered an anomaly.
Coverage
- Congressional Candidate Has Close Ties to Progressive Group Pushing for Elimination of Prisons
- Rep. Michael McCaul to Face Rematch from 2018 Challenger Mike Siegel in 10th Congressional District
Last updated: October 22, 2020
Congressional District 21
Current: Chip Roy (R)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Receipts | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chip Roy (R)* | $1,736,867.55 | $318,189.37 | $0.00 | $982,954.95 |
| Wendy Davis (D) | $2,281,382.56 | $913,058.78 | $0.00 | $513,325.41 |
| Arthur Dibianca (L) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Tommy Wakely (L) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Polling
Cook Political Report rates the district as a “Toss-Up.”
Sabato’s Crystal Ball rates the district as a “Toss-Up.”
Background
Conservative firebrand freshman congressman, Chip Roy, has drawn stiff opposition in former State Senator and 2014 gubernatorial candidate Wendy Davis. Roy won in 2018 over a large primary field of Republicans and then beat the Democratic challenger to replace long-time Rep. Lamar Smith (R). Davis became famous for successfully filibustering a pro-life bill in the Senate. She has outraised Roy in all filing periods since she jumped in. TX-21 is one of the DCCC’s targeted districts across the country.
Coverage
- Rep. Chip Roy, Wendy Davis Square Off in Battleground Debate
- Wendy Davis Campaign Wins Temporary Restraining Order to Knock Green Party Opponent Off Ballot
- Dan Crenshaw, Wendy Davis Top House Fundraising in July Quarterly Filing
- Rep. Chip Roy, Challenger Wendy Davis Clash Over Coronavirus Response
- Brady PAC to Support Wendy Davis in TX-21 Race Against Chip Roy
- Wendy Davis, Jennie Lou Leeder Discuss Guns, Immigration, Impeachment at Comal County Democratic Primary Forum
- Rep. Chip Roy Kicks Off 2020 Re-Election Campaign
- Wendy Davis Announces Run Against Chip Roy for Congress
- Texas Battleground: Wendy Davis Rumored to Announce Congressional Run Against Chip Roy
- Chip Roy’s Raucous San Antonio Townhall Began Unruly, But Finished Civilly
- Congressman Roy Lays Out Policy Views at Town Hall
- VIDEO: Congressman Chip Roy’s Conversation with Konni Burton
Last updated: October 22, 2020
Congressional District 22
Current: Pete Olson (R) (Retiring)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Receipts | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sri Preston Kulkarni (D) | $1,364,062.42 | $326,983.56 | $0.00 | $712,231.54 |
| Troy Nehls (R) | $386,136.15 | $190,769.05 | $5,600.00 | $164,611.35 |
| Joseph LeBlanc | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Polling
Cook Political Report rates the district as a Toss-Up.
Sabato Crystal Ball rates the district as a Toss-Up.
Background
Rep. Pete Olson’s retirement has provided what many Democrats see as an opportunity to flip the seat. After losing to Olson in 2018 by a margin of less than 5 points, Sri Preston Kulkarni emerged as the party nominee in the Democratic primary again with both strong name recognition and high fundraising numbers. On the Republican side, Fort Bend County Sheriff Troy Nehls led in the GOP primary with 40.5 percent of the vote and then won the runoff election against Kathaleen Wall with 70 percent of the vote.
The district has gained nationwide attention as one to watch to see if, in fact, the Democrats can successfully turn the contested district blue in the next election cycle.
Coverage
- Fort Bend Sheriff Troy Nehls Wins GOP Congressional Nomination, Will Face Sri Preston Kulkarni in November
- Troy Nehls Heads to GOP Runoff Against Kathaleen Wall, Kulkarni Secures Democratic Nomination
- Republican Candidates Vying to Replace Olson Face-Off at Richmond Forum
- Pierce Bush, Grandson of George H.W. Bush, Enters Crowded Congressional Race to Replace Olson
- Texas’ 22nd Congressional District: History of the Seat and a Breakdown of the Current Race
- Battleground 2020 Update: Cornyn, Putnam, Pfluger, and Hunt Boast Big Fundraising Numbers for Third Quarter
- Battleground 2020 Update: Key Texas Races at State and Federal Levels Shaping Up
- After Rep. Pete Olson’s Retirement, Is the Texas-22 Landscape Shifting?
- Battleground 2020 Update: Candidates Running in Some Hotly Contested Texas Races
- BREAKING: Congressman Pete Olson to Retire
Last updated: October 22, 2020
Congressional District 23
Current: Will Hurd (R) (Retiring)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Receipts | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gina Ortiz Jones (D) | $1,474,554.92 | $344,663.49 | $0.00 | $977,674.65 |
| Tony Gonzales (R) | $550,754.06 | $211,836.77 | $0.00 | $284,787.78 |
| Beto Villela (L) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Polling
Cook Political Report rates the district as “Lean Democratic.”
Sabato Crystal Ball rates the district as “Leans Democratic.”
Background
Will Hurd’s retirement leaves one of the most competitive districts in the state and the only border district in the U.S. up for grabs. As Democrats hope to flip the the border district blue, Gina Ortiz Jones is the Democratic nominee once again after losing to Hurd in 2018 by a margin of less than 1,000 votes. After a close and disputed Republican primary runoff, Tony Gonzales emerged as the GOP nominee. The historic trends in this district make it sure to be a race to watch closely on election night.
Coverage
- GOP Congressional Race Between Gonzales, Reyes too Close to Call
- Sen. Ted Cruz Launches Fund Supporting Conservative Candidates in Texas, Across the Country
- Gonzales, Reyes in GOP Runoff to Replace Retiring Rep. Will Hurd
- Campaigns Paused Due to the Coronavirus Find Ways to Campaign Safely, Volunteer
- Gina Ortiz Jones Sails Through TX-23 Democratic Primary, Will Face Runoff Winner Between Tony Gonzales and Raul Reyes
- Texas’ 23rd Congressional District: An Historical and Political Overview of a Competitive Seat
- Congressman Will Hurd Announces He Will Not Seek Re-Election in 2020
- Gina Ortiz-Jones Set to Challenge Will Hurd Once Again
Last updated: October 22, 2020
Congressional District 24
Current: Kenny Marchant (R) (Retiring)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Receipts | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beth Van Duyne (R) | $604,552.54 | $185,188.94 | $0.00 | $370,049.69 |
| Candace Valenzuela (D) | $1,114,397.97 | $480,986.67 | $0.00 | $354,303.79 |
| Steve Kuzmich (I) | $64,433.81 | $75,000.00 | $25,000.00 | $18,037.96 |
| Darren Hamilton (L) | $0.00 | $0.00 | $0.00 | $358.00 |
| Mark Bauer (I) | $4,926.51 | $135.00 | $0.00 | -$3,591.18 |
Polling
Cook Political Report rates the district as a Toss Up.
Sabato Crystal Ball rates the district as “Leans Democratic.”
Background
The race to replace retiring Congressman Kenny Marchant consisted of two competitive primaries and will see a competitive general election, too. Beth Van Duyne, a former Irving mayor secured the Republican nomination outright in the March Primary. In July, Candace Valenzuela, a member of the Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD Board of Trustees, won the Democratic primary runoff against Kim Olson.
Van Duyne has received the endorsement of President Trump. Marchant won reelection in 2018 with 50.6 percent.
Coverage
- Candace Valenzuela Wins Democratic Congressional Runoff, Will Face Republican Beth Van Duyne in November
- Democratic Group to Spend Six-Figures on Direct Mail Campaign Targeting Kim Olson
- Campaigns Paused Due to the Coronavirus Find Ways to Campaign Safely, Volunteer
- Beth Van Duyne Wins GOP Congressional Nomination, Olson and Valenzuela Will Battle in Democrat Runoff
- Grapevine Forum Highlights Republican Candidates Seeking to Replace Retiring Rep. Kenny Marchant
- Candidate Beth Van Duyne Joins ‘Conservative Squad’ With Other Republican Candidates
- Texas’ 24th Congressional District Overview: An Historical and Political Breakdown of a Potential Suburban Toss Up
- Congressman Kenny Marchant Announces Retirement, Republicans Join Race for His Seat
- Grapevine Forum Highlights Republican Candidates Seeking to Replace Retiring Rep. Kenny Marchant
Last updated: October 22, 2020
Congressional District 31
Current: John Carter (R)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Receipts | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| John Carter (R)* | $408,430.36 | $19,087.45 | $0.00 | $668,412.45 |
| Donna Imam (D) | $270,414.23 | $101,420.98 | $0.00 | $211,257.99 |
| Clark Patterson (L) | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A |
Polling
Cook Political Report rates the district as “Likely Republican.”
Sabato’s Crystal Ball rates the district as “Likely Republican.”
Background
In 2018, incumbent Rep. John Carter (R-TX-31) edged out high-profile Democratic challenger MJ Hegar. With Hegar is running for U.S. Senate this year, Carter will face Donna Imam, who emerged as the nominee from the extensive Democratic primary. TX-31 is one of the DCCC’s targeted districts across the country.
Last updated: October 22, 2020
Congressional District 32
Current: Colin Allred (D)
Fundraising
| Candidate | Expenditures | Receipts | Outstanding Loans | Cash on Hand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colin Allred (D)* | $1,399,340.29 | $246,184.18 | $0.00 | $533,672.81 |
| Genevieve Collins (R) | $1,237,649.27 | $478,712.37 | $1,480,000.00 | $269,596.12 |
Background
Colin Allred, former professional football player and civil rights lawyer, defeated longtime GOP incumbent Pete Sessions in 2018 after an expensive and hard fought race in an area of the state where Republicans suffered substantial losses on election night. As Republicans position themselves for a matchup against Allred, the Democrat incumbent boasts strong fundraising numbers ahead of what is sure to be a high profile race.
Genevieve Collins secured the Republican nomination outright with a majority of the votes on Super Tuesday, and is poised for a competitive race.
Polling
Cook Political Report rates this district as “Lean Democratic.”
Sabato’s Crystal Ball rates this district as “Likely Democratic.”
Coverage
- Battleground 2020: Freshman Democrat Rep. Colin Allred Looks to Stave Off Challengers in Historically GOP District
- Retired Navy SEAL Seeks to Challenge Colin Allred
Last updated: October 22, 2020
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