Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton says his Senate race could decide the country's future, warning supporters in Allen as early voting began in Texas. The Republican argued that a Democratic victory could shift Senate control and threaten President Donald Trump's agenda. Democrat James Talarico is his opponent. The unusually competitive contest comes amid voter frustration over the economy and Republican doubts about Ken Paxton. Democrats last won a Texas Senate race in 1988. Ken Paxton attacked James Talarico's environmental positions, saying they would hurt Texas' oil and gas industry. He also criticized his opponent's transgender policy positions. James Talarico has said he supports a national ban on gender-affirming surgeries for minors, while opposing legislation that also restricted other medical treatments. At the University of North Texas, James Talarico encouraged students to vote and accused Elon Musk of trying to buy a senator. Elon Musk contributed $158 million to a Republican super PAC, which transferred the money to a group supporting Ken Paxton in the Senate race.

Incumbent U.S. Rep. Derrick Van Orden faces a rematch with Democrat Rebecca Cooke in Wisconsin's 3rd Congressional District.

Republican Michael Alfonso and Democrat Fred Clark are squaring off in the 7th Congressional District. The winner will succeed Tom Tiffany.

Gas prices surged 9.1% in September as consumer prices rose 3.7% annually, putting Trump's promise to lower costs to the test before midterms.

The investment marks an unusually aggressive Democratic play in one of the nation’s deepest red strongholds.

The Observer’s 2026 voter guide covers elections from U.S. Senate to soil and water conservation district and referendums on the ballot.