Even Democrats are sick and tired of Crockett.
Longtime Democratic strategist James Carville is raising red flags about Rep. Jasmine Crockett’s decision to run for U.S. Senate in Texas — and his blunt assessment is giving Republicans fresh ammunition heading into the 2026 election cycle.
During a recent episode of his Politics War Room podcast, Carville suggested Crockett made a fundamental political mistake right out of the gate.
“She seems bright and energetic,” Carville said. “But the first rule of politics is simple: you make it about the voters, not about yourself.”
According to Carville, Crockett’s early campaign messaging focuses more on elevating her own profile than addressing the everyday concerns of Texans. That, he warned, is a recipe for electoral trouble — especially in a state as competitive and diverse as Texas.
Carville stressed that successful campaigns aren’t built on media attention or viral moments.
“Winning elections isn’t about how many clicks you get or how fast you raise money,” he explained. “It’s about understanding voters, framing issues properly, and earning trust.”
The Democratic strategist was unusually direct, saying he does not believe Crockett has demonstrated those instincts so far.
Carville and podcast co-host Al Hunt contrasted Crockett with her primary opponent, Texas state Rep. James Talarico, who is also vying for the Democratic nomination to challenge Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas). Carville said Talarico shows greater political discipline and a stronger voter-focused approach.
“He talks more about voters than about himself,” Carville noted, calling that a major advantage.
Crockett officially entered the Senate race earlier this week, acknowledging criticism from supporters who wanted her to remain in the House.
“I hear people saying we need your voice in Congress,” Crockett said at her campaign launch. “But what we need is a bigger voice.”
Her announcement followed the sudden exit of former Rep. Colin Allred from the race, clearing the Democratic field and setting up a high-profile primary battle.
Republicans reacted quickly — and enthusiastically.
Sen. John Cornyn, who is facing multiple GOP primary challengers of his own, welcomed Crockett’s candidacy and described it as a political opportunity for Republicans. House Speaker Mike Johnson went further, saying he was “absolutely delighted” by her decision to run.
Sen. Ted Cruz also weighed in, arguing that Crockett has become emblematic of where today’s Democratic Party is heading. Speaking on Fox News, Cruz suggested Democrats are prioritizing ideology and attention over electability.
President Trump echoed that assessment, calling Crockett’s Senate bid “a gift to Republicans” and predicting it would strengthen the GOP’s position in Texas.
With Democrats now facing an intense primary fight and Republicans unified in opposition, Crockett’s Senate run is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about — and politically consequential — races of the upcoming election cycle.
