Bill Press examines two races that could shift U.S. politics: Texas’s U.S. Senate contest and California’s open governor’s race. In Texas, reporter Maria Recio of The Austin American-Statesman, explains how state Rep. James Talarico beat Rep. Jasmine Crockett in the Democratic primary, citing his earlier start, stronger ground game, appeal to Latino voters, moderate and faith-based profile, and high Democratic turnout; the GOP nominee will be decided in a May 26 runoff between Sen. John Cornyn and AG Ken Paxton, with Trump’s endorsement still uncertain and Paxton seen as more damaged by scandals. They discuss issues likely shaping 2026, including affordability, immigration enforcement conditions, and war. In California, Politico’s Melanie Mason details the top-two “jungle primary,” warning Democrats that eight candidates could split votes enough to allow two Republicans to advance; current frontrunners include Katie Porter, Eric Swalwell, and wealthy spender Tom Steyer, amid few major endorsements.

You can follow Melanie Mason’s work at Politico.com/newsletters/californiaplaybook

Today's Bill Press Pod is supported by The Ironworkers Union. More information at Ironworkers.org

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Two Top Political Editors on The State of the Union.