General Discussion

Most people did not see her as electable in the General and there is a real concern by some Republicans about Paxton being elected.

In Texas, we are surrounded by Republicans. So, I had conversations with Republicans about Talarico and Crockett. The ones that I spoke with who are concerned about Paxton said they'd consider Talarico in the General. None of them said they'd even consider Crockett.

I don't think they took the time to see if there was a difference in the platforms of Talarico and Crockett. They are Republicans, after all. They're going to vote mainly for Republicans in the General. They commented about Crockett's looks, etc. They are making their choice by what they see and they didn't like her approach and the way she handles herself.

But to get ANYONE elected, we need those Republicans!!!! If their thinking is flawed, that's not even relevant right now. We need their votes. If they are shallow in their way of thinking about Crockett, what are you going to do? Piss them off further by telling them they are jerks for being that way, and then they will surely vote for Paxton in the General.

Texas is not going to jump from massive red all the way to stunning blue in one swoop. If we can get ONE Senate seat, anyone down here will consider that a victory. So, if we have to assuage the Republican voters who can help us, then so be it. We need numbers!!!

If that takes someone like Talarico, then I'm all for it.

Now to be clear, he was my candidate to begin with. He was in the race first, he was likeable and he was approachable. The man is smart and quick on his feet. He made good sense, and like many Texans (like it or not religion is a factor down here!), he speaks of an inclusive religion; not a divisive one - which is something that MANY OF US want to hear. He will make a good Senator.

The fact is that HE'S THE CANDIDATE now. I feel like there's a big push to discuss the race issue - almost as if anyone who DIDN'T vote for Crockett did so just because she's a Black woman. There's merit to that, I am certain. But this race is over. What needs to change for the next time a Black woman runs? Maybe that's a better discussion than looking back at this race.

But let's not skip over the fact that there's also merit to the fact that Talarico filled a box that many Texas are looking for and he doesn't need to be diminished just because he won. He was the choice. So now, we need to support him and go forward.