As Texas Republicans prepare for a U.S. Senate primary brawl, Democrats see an opportunity to end a three-decade losing streak. Why it matters: Democrats haven't won a statewide office since 1994, but Republicans' vulnerability — exposed by state Attorney General Ken Paxton's primary challenge against Sen.

Allred is the first major Democrat to announce candidacy for the seat held by Cornyn. Several others have indicated interest, including Beto O’Rourke.

DALLAS — Former Texas congressman Colin Allred launched another run for the U.S. Senate on Tuesday after the Democrat's challenge against Republican Sen. Ted Cruz last year broke records for spending but did not deliver his party the breakthrough it has sought for decades in the state.