Colin Allred is shifting his political ambitions from a Senate campaign to a House race. On Monday, the former Democratic Representative announced he will run for the newly redrawn 33rd Congressional District in North Texas. This decision, made just hours before the filing deadline, has significant implications for the Texas Democratic primary landscape.
New Direction for Colin Allred
Allred’s announcement comes as Democratic Representative Jasmine Crockett contemplates a Senate bid. He cited concerns about a divisive Senate primary, suggesting it could hinder party unity against potential GOP candidates like Ken Paxton, John Cornyn, or Allen Hunt.
In his statement, Allred emphasized his commitment to serving his community. He remarked, “The 33rd district was racially gerrymandered… it’s also the community where I grew up.” His roots in the district, combined with its dynamically Democratic nature, motivated his decision to transition from state-wide to a more localized congressional effort.
Context of the New 33rd District
- The district is known for its Democratic leanings.
- Previous election results indicated Trump would have lost the new 33rd by 33 points.
- Allred previously lost a Senate race to Republican Ted Cruz by just 9 points.
Implications for the Senate Race
Allred’s switch to the House has stirred the Senate race dynamics. Jasmine Crockett is expected to announce her decision regarding a Senate campaign soon. She has claimed polling data shows her strong potential to win, especially among Black and Brown voters.
State Representative James Talarico is another key figure in the Senate race, known for his role in legislative protests against redistricting. As the deadline approaches, the political landscape is evolving rapidly, with incumbents like Marc Veasey and Julie Johnson also affected by the new districting.
Candidate Landscape in North Texas
The upcoming elections in North Texas will witness robust competition, particularly in the 33rd District. Notable candidates include:
- Colin Allred – Running for the 33rd Congressional District
- Jasmine Crockett – Considering a Senate run
- James Talarico – Running for Senate
- Marc Veasey – Filed to run in the 33rd District
- Julie Johnson – Also adjusting her campaign for the new boundaries
As the political climate continues to shift, the Texas Democratic Party is gearing up for a competitive election cycle. Unity and strategic choices will be paramount for candidates as they navigate the new landscape.
