One of Texas' most recognizable personal injury attorneys, Thomas J. Henry, has thrown his support behind Democratic state Rep. James Talarico in the state's closely watched U.S. Senate race. Henry, whose face is a staple of Texas television commercials and roadside billboards, announced the endorsement in a video posted Thursday on the social platform X.
In the video, Henry explained that a lengthy in-person meeting with Talarico convinced him of the candidate's merits. “I found that James’ approach to these problems that affect Texas and our country, were balanced, straightforward and honest,” Henry said.
The endorsement marks a notable shift for Henry, who contributed more than $600,000 to a political action committee supporting Talarico's Republican opponent, Ken Paxton, during the GOP primary. Paxton, who had the backing of former President Trump, defeated incumbent Sen. John Cornyn in a May runoff.
Henry addressed his earlier support for Paxton in the video, saying he believed it was time to move beyond career politicians. “I think that politicians shouldn’t serve endless terms in the U.S. Senate,” he said, citing Cornyn's long tenure as a reason for his initial preference.
However, Henry said his perspective changed after meeting Talarico, a meeting he considered crucial given that Paxton has so far declined invitations to debate. “That meeting was extremely valuable because it taught me the values Talarico has,” Henry said. “Respect, fairness, safety, good economics for Texas and our country and a balanced approach to all the issues.”
Henry's endorsement comes just one day after another prominent Texas figure backed Talarico. Neil Bush, brother of former President George W. Bush, announced Tuesday that he had voted for the young state representative in the Senate race.
Democrats have not won a Senate seat in Texas since the Reagan administration, but recent polling suggests a competitive contest. Talarico has led in most surveys, and nonpartisan election forecaster Decision Desk HQ gives him a 57% chance of defeating Paxton, a figure that aligns with recent polling that shows Democrats ahead in several key Senate races.
Henry's endorsement could provide Talarico with a financial boost and crossover appeal, especially among voters who may have supported Paxton in the primary. The race remains one of the most watched in the country, with implications for control of the Senate.
As the campaign heats up, Talarico has also drawn attention for his criticism of Elon Musk's political spending, positioning himself as a candidate focused on everyday Texans rather than billionaires. The endorsement from Henry, a wealthy trial lawyer, may seem at odds with that message, but Henry's shift suggests a broader appeal for Talarico's platform.
With the election approaching, both campaigns are likely to intensify their efforts. Paxton continues to emphasize his conservative credentials and Trump alignment, while Talarico is banking on a coalition of Democrats, independents, and disaffected Republicans to pull off an upset.
