Early voting in Texas: how the Democrats want to win the Republican stronghold in mid-term elections

Advance voting for the American elections from the middle of the term began on Monday in Texas, and Democrats hope for historic victories in this traditional Republican bastion, writes AFP, quoted by Agerspres. Earlier in the day, lines formed in front of a polling station in Houston. Texans have until November 3rd to vote between the Democratic candidates, who focus their campaign on economic concerns, and the Republicans, aligned behind American president Donald Trump. Voters will also have to choose the next governor: Republican Greg Abbott, 68, who is running for a fourth term, or Democrat Gina Hinojosa, a 52-year-old lawyer, whom polls indicate is slightly ahead. In the Senate race, Democrat James Talarico, a former professor of 37, managed to mobilize voters, which allowed him to gain a slight advantage over Ken Paxton, 63, the current Attorney General of the state and an ally of Donald Trump. Gina Hinojosa and James Talarico represent a new generation of Democrats who are trying to attract independent voters, as well as Americans disillusioned by the unpopular war led by Donald Trump in the Middle East and the price explosion. They also hope to win back the Latino electorate, attracted by the billionaire in 2024, dissatisfied with the repression operations against immigrants that have shaken the country since the beginning of his second term. As for the Republican candidates, they are heavily relying on the support of voters who support Donald Trump. "I want Donald Trump to go all the way (...) I want him to put into practice what he promised to do," testified Rose Mary Cuevas, 64. Both Greg Abbott and Ken Paxton have avoided debates as the election approaches. The latter is trying to overcome years of controversy, including allegations of fraud, rumored infidelity speculation related to the breakdown of his marriage, or questions about the close ties maintained with certain donors. In 2023, the Texas House of Representatives, controlled by Republicans, initiated an "impeachment" procedure against it, meaning bringing it under suspicion for potential resignation due to corruption and abuse of power. Later, he was acquitted by the local Senate. Read also: Trump reaches the lowest level of popularity amid American dissatisfaction with gas prices (Reuters poll) Editor: Ș.R.