Country music icon Willie Nelson has officially endorsed Democrat James Talarico in his campaign for the Texas Senate.
Key facts
- •Willie Nelson officially endorsed Democrat James Talarico in a campaign video.
- •The band Yo La Tengo will hold a benefit concert for Talarico’s campaign on October 27 in Austin.
- •The benefit concert is limited to 500 attendees and requires a $100 donation.
- •Nelson previously endorsed Beto O’Rourke in both his 2018 Senate race and 2022 gubernatorial run.
- •Ted Cruz publicly responded to the endorsement, suggesting it historically precedes losses for Texas Democrats.
Willie Nelson has formally endorsed Texas state representative James Talarico in his bid for the state Senate. The endorsement was announced through a campaign video released by Talarico, in which Nelson describes the candidate as a good man who would serve the state well. The two were previously seen together backstage at Nelson’s annual Fourth of July concert earlier this summer.
By the numbers
Campaign Support and Endorsements
Talarico, who is seeking to become the first Democrat to win a statewide election in Texas in over three decades, has received support from several high-profile figures. In addition to Nelson, the campaign has been backed by Don Henley and the Chicks. The band Yo La Tengo is also participating in the effort, with a scheduled benefit concert in Austin on October 27. Attendance for the event is limited to 500 people, with entry requiring a $100 donation to Talarico’s campaign.
Political Context and Reactions
Nelson has a history of supporting Democratic candidates in Texas, having previously endorsed Beto O’Rourke during his 2018 Senate bid and his 2022 gubernatorial campaign. Following the announcement of Nelson's support for Talarico, Senator Ted Cruz commented on the endorsement via X, stating that while he considers Nelson’s music great, the singer's political backing has historically signaled the end for Democratic campaigns in the state.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Pitchfork, Rolling Stone.
