READ THE FULL @cbsnewspoll AND CROSSTABS HERE: cbsnews.com/news/texas-senat…

WHAT ABOUT LATINOS IN TEXAS? They swung toward Trump in 2024, but most are now backing Democrat Talarico. Latinos are more likely than voters overall to say higher prices have been a hardship or difficult, and most of them do not think Paxton has the right personal character to serve as a senator.

WHY IS PAXTON FARING WELL? The Trump administration's deportation program gets more support in Texas, compared to the most recent national @cbsnewspoll, and that advantages Paxton.  Beyond economic consideration Republicans say they feel Talarico represents policies that are a threat to their culture and way of life.  (Democrats, for their part, feel the same about Paxton.) Also: In a state where few voters describe themselves as liberal, Talarico is viewed as "very liberal" by nearly half. When they describe Talarico this way, they're voting for Paxton.

WHY IS TALARICO FARING WELL? The cost of living is the top issue for Texas voters, and most say they've been negatively affected by higher prices. Among these voters, Talarico enjoys a sizable lead over Paxton.  And more see Talarico as having the right character to serve as senator. Personal qualities matter more to Talarico voters than Paxton’s.

WHY TALARICO OR PAXTON? Talarico's standing is helped by more Democrats saying they'll definitely vote. That leaves the dynamic in the closing weeks very much up for grabs. If more Republicans decide to vote, it could certainly change. The bulk of Paxton's voters are backing him either because he's the GOP nominee or to oppose Talarico, and because they want to support President Trump.

🚨 NEW @cbsnewspoll: A Texas toss-up with @jamestalarico @KenPaxtonTX in a tight Senate race. Paxton benefits from the state's overall Republican leanings, while Talarico is boosted by voters' economic concerns and higher perceptions of personal character to serve as senator.  cbsnews.com/news/texas-senat…