Deep in Trump country, a new generation reveals the divide behind Texas' tight Senate race
LUBBOCK, Texas — They share a roof, split the bills and attend the same university. But as Texas' unexpectedly competitive Senate race takes center stage in West Texas, three college...
By Fox News · Fox News
LUBBOCK, Texas — They share a roof, split the bills and attend the same university. But as Texas' unexpectedly competitive Senate race takes center stage in West Texas, three college roommates have very different ideas about who should shape the state's future. The students attend Texas Tech University, where they're balancing classes, career ambitions and newfound independence while navigating political differences that extend far beyond their shared apartment. For Isabella, the election could shape her future career in oil and gas, an industry heavily influenced by government policy. For Kate, women's healthcare and immigration are driving her support for Democrat James Talarico. And for Candy, rising everyday costs and concerns about public education are shaping her vote. Their differences come into focus as President Donald Trump descended on Lubbock to rally alongside Republican Senate candidate Ken Paxton on Tuesday. Across town, Democrat James Talarico was courting voters in a state Republicans have dominated for decades. TRUMP WON THIS RELIABLY RED STATE BY DOUBLE DIGITS. NOW A DEADLOCKED RACE IS BRINGING HIM BACK Inside their cozy off-campus apartment, where laptops lie open, notebooks are spread out and favorite snacks are within arm's reach, the three roommates spoke candidly with Fox News Digital about the issues shaping their political views — and how they navigate those differences under one roof. "I don't think we’ll flip anytime soon," Isabella said of Talarico’s bid to turn Texas blue for the first time in more than three decades. Kate, who voted for Talarico, sees things differently. "I think, as a first-time voter, just in general, it's exciting to just feel like you have the ability to make a change," the 19-year-old who hails from Dallas said. The competing perspectives come as the Texas Senate race has become a razor-thin contest, despite Trump's nearly 14-point victory in the state in 2024. A Fox News poll conducted in October found Paxton an…