Democrat Colin Allred abruptly ended his U.S. Senate campaign Monday morning, announcing he will instead run for the newly drawn Congressional District 33 — a move that sets up a primary battle with Democratic Rep. Julie Johnson.
Allred Cites Party Unity and Trump Threat
Allred said he stepped aside to avoid a bruising Senate primary that could divide Democrats ahead of a critical election year.
“In the past few days, I’ve come to believe that a bruising Senate Democratic primary and runoff would prevent the Democratic Party from going into this critical election unified against the danger posed…by Donald Trump,” he said.
He emphasized his deep ties to the new district, highlighting his childhood in the area, his work securing federal funding, and the opening of the Garland VA hospital. “It’s the community where I was raised, and where Aly and I are now raising our two boys.”
Johnson Responds Without Naming Allred
Johnson, who succeeded Allred in the 32nd District, issued a pointed statement suggesting the district needs consistent representation.
“This new district deserves representation that has been present in the tough moments…instead of parachuting back when another campaign doesn’t work out,” she said.
Crockett Expected to Launch Senate Bid
Allred’s departure clears the field for Rep. Jasmine Crockett, who is set to announce her Senate campaign just ahead of Monday’s filing deadline. She will face state Rep. James Talarico, who has raised significant early funds and drawn national attention.
With Allred out, the likelihood of a Democratic runoff diminishes. The winner will face the GOP nominee — likely Sen. John Cornyn, though he faces challenges from Attorney General Ken Paxton and Rep. Wesley Hunt.
Redistricting Scrambles Texas Races
The shake-up comes after the U.S. Supreme Court upheld Texas Republicans’ mid-decade redistricting plan, which could net the GOP up to five additional House seats. The new maps shifted Allred’s old 32nd District from solidly Democratic to Republican-leaning, prompting various reshuffled campaigns.
As Crockett moves to the Senate race, her 30th District seat opens up. Democratic Rep. Marc Veasey is expected to run, and Dr. Frederick Haynes III is exploring a bid.
New 32nd District Draws GOP Field
With the 32nd District now favoring Republicans, candidates including Ryan Binkley, Darrell Day, Aimee Carrasco, Monty Montanez, and Paul Bondar are competing. Former Rep. Darrell Issa briefly considered running but opted to stay in California after discussions with former President Trump.
Texas Rep. Katrina Pierson also weighed a run but will seek re-election to her state House seat.
For more Texas news, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.