Representative Jasmine Crockett (D-TX) is drawing attention after stating that Black voters have not fully unified behind Texas Democratic Senate nominee James Talarico, while also confirming she will not attend the upcoming Texas Democratic Party convention in Corpus Christi.
The convention is expected to serve as a key moment for Texas Democrats, who are trying to project unity and build momentum behind Talarico’s challenge to Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton. However, Crockett’s decision to skip the event has added another layer of internal tension to an already competitive political environment.
Crockett, who previously lost the Democratic Senate primary to Talarico in March, told the Dallas Morning News that she plans to focus instead on supporting down-ballot candidates across the country.
“I’ve not heard a bunch of kumbaya,” Crockett said, adding that voter enthusiasm, particularly among Black voters, has not fully solidified around the statewide ticket.
When asked about her support for Talarico’s campaign, Crockett declined to offer a clear endorsement.
“I have no idea. I am more focused on down-ballot races in general,” she said.
She also suggested the invitation to the convention was not a priority outreach, describing it as an “afterthought invite,” and said she had not returned a call or listened to a voicemail from Talarico.
The Talarico campaign, however, stated that he personally reached out and left a message inviting Crockett to deliver the convention’s keynote address, as Democrats continue efforts to consolidate support following a contested primary.
Crockett further expressed concerns about fundraising dynamics and national donor priorities, suggesting that financial support for Texas Democrats may depend more on broader political conditions than individual candidates.
“If for some reason there’s a surge, I don’t think it’s going to be because of anyone on this ticket,” she said. “It’ll be because of the overall environment.”
Texas Democratic Party Chairman Kendall Scudder pushed back on claims of division, saying the party remains energized and focused heading into the November election.
