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FULL: James Talarico speech after Texas Senate victory
James Talarico delivers his victory speech after defeating Ken Paxton in the Texas Senate race, celebrating supporters and declaring that Texas has been reclaimed by the people.
Following state Rep. James Talarico’s victory over Attorney General Ken Paxton in Tuesday’s midterm election, voters across Texas are tracking when the state’s newly elected senator will officially assume office in Washington.
When does Talarico take office?
The answer is set by the U.S. Constitution: Talarico will officially take office at noon on Jan. 3, 2027, when the 120th Congress convenes.
Under the 20th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, the terms of outgoing members of Congress expire at noon on Jan. 3, at which point the six-year terms of their newly elected successors begin.
Who is James Talarico? What to know about the lawmaker who turned Texas blue
On Tuesday, Texas elected its first Democrat to statewide office in more than 30 years when James Talarico defeated Ken Paxton to become the next senator from Texas.
The Senate Class System and Talarico’s Seat
Dig deeper:
Article I, Section 3 of the Constitution divides the 100-member U.S. Senate into three classes to create staggered six-year terms, with roughly one-third of the chamber facing election every two years.
Texas’ two U.S. Senate seats belong to different classes:
Class II (Nov. 3, 2026 Election): The seat won by Talarico belongs to Class II. The current term began on Jan. 3, 2021, and officially expires at noon on Jan. 3, 2027. Incumbent Republican John Cornyn previously held the seat before losing in the GOP primary runoff, setting up the general election matchup between Talarico and Paxton. Talarico’s upcoming term will run through Jan. 3, 2033.
Class I (Next Election: Nov. 2030): Texas’ other Senate seat is held by Republican Ted Cruz, who won reelection in November 2024. His Class I term runs through Jan. 3, 2031.
James Talarico defeats Ken Paxton to become next US Senator from Texas
Democrat James Talarico will be the next senator from Texas.
The Path to Swearing-In for Talarico
Timeline:
While Talarico declared victory following election night calls, his official transition follows a set legal process over the coming weeks:
- State Certification: Local and state election officials will finalize canvas totals, after which Texas state authorities will issue an official Certificate of Election to Talarico.
- Opening of the 120th Congress: Talarico will travel to the U.S. Capitol for the formal convening of the new Congress on Jan. 3, 2027.
- Taking the Oath: At noon on Jan. 3, Talarico will be sworn in on the Senate floor, taking the constitutional oath of office to officially assume full legislative duties representing Texas.
The Source: Information in this article is from the US Senate Qualifications and Terms of service.