Texas Republicans brace for a contentious primary as John Cornyn squares off against Ken Paxton and Wesley Hunt, while Democrats Jasmine Crockett and James Talarico wage their own contest. Both sides view the March 3 U.S. Senate primaries as a pivotal test that could usher in a new era of leadership in Texas.

Texas State Rep. James Talarico, a Democrat, has declared his intention to challenge Republican Sen. John Cornyn for his Senate seat. With the election taking place next year, the stage is set for a pivotal political battle in the Lone Star State.