Democrats Condemn Crockett
James Carville Warns Jasmine Crockett’s Senate Run May Hurt Democrats in Texas
Veteran Democratic strategist James Carville is questioning whether Rep. Jasmine Crockett’s decision to run for U.S. Senate in Texas is a political misstep, arguing that her campaign launch highlights a fundamental problem with her approach to voters.
Speaking on his Politics War Room podcast, Carville said Crockett appears to violate what he described as the “first rule of politics” — focusing on voters instead of personal ambition.
“She’s clearly educated and energetic,” Carville said during the episode. “But in politics, it’s never about you. It’s about the voters. And I think she misses that.”
Carville: Campaign Focused Too Much on Self, Not Voters
Carville told podcast co-host Al Hunt that Crockett’s public messaging centers heavily on herself rather than on the everyday concerns of Texans — a strategy he warned often leads to electoral failure.
“If you listen to her speak, there’s more emphasis on her story than on the voters’,” Carville said. He suggested Crockett might have been better served remaining in the House and helping Democrats protect vulnerable seats across Texas.
Carville also cautioned Democrats against confusing social media attention and rapid fundraising with real political success.
“Winning elections isn’t about clicks or overnight donations,” he said. “It’s about framing issues correctly and understanding where voters are coming from. That’s how elections are won.”
He added bluntly that he does not believe Crockett excels at that skill.
Democrats Praise Rival James Talarico
While criticizing Crockett, Carville and Hunt spoke favorably about her Democratic primary opponent, Texas state Rep. James Talarico. Carville said Talarico shows political promise because his messaging emphasizes voters rather than personal branding.
“That matters,” Carville said. Hunt agreed, saying voter-focused campaigns remain essential to winning elections.
Crockett Says Senate Run Will Give Her a ‘Bigger Voice’
Crockett officially launched her Senate campaign earlier this week, acknowledging concerns from supporters who urged her to remain in the House. She argued that Texas Democrats need her influence on a larger stage.
“I understand why people want me to stay,” Crockett said at her campaign event. “But what Texas needs is for me to have a bigger voice.”
Her announcement followed former Rep. Colin Allred’s decision to exit the race, setting up a Democratic primary contest between Crockett and Talarico.
Republicans React With Open Enthusiasm
Republicans responded swiftly — and enthusiastically — to Crockett’s entry into the race.
Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas), who faces primary challengers of his own, called Crockett’s campaign a political “gift” during an interview, saying he was not hiding his satisfaction.
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) echoed that sentiment, telling reporters he was “absolutely delighted” by Crockett’s Senate run and describing it as a major advantage for Republicans.
Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) also weighed in, arguing that Crockett’s rise reflects broader changes within the Democratic Party. Speaking on Fox News, Cruz said Democrats increasingly elevate more extreme voices at the expense of moderates.
President Trump Calls Crockett’s Run a ‘Gift to Republicans’
President Donald Trump also commented on Crockett’s candidacy, telling reporters aboard Air Force One that her Senate bid benefits Republicans.
“I think it’s a gift,” Trump said. “I’ve watched her for the last two years. I don’t see her winning.”
As the Texas Senate race begins to take shape, Crockett’s campaign is already drawing criticism not only from Republicans but also from longtime Democratic strategists who question whether her approach will resonate with Texas voters beyond party activists and social media audiences.
