Democratic turnout in the Texas primary has hit its highest level in a midterm election since 2002, a reflection of the nationwide momentum for liberal candidates opposing President Donald Trump. At least 700,000 people voted in the Democratic primary election for U.S. Senate won Tuesday by U.S. Rep. Beto O'Rourke. That surpasses the last three midterms. Just over 1 million people voted in the Democratic primary in 2002.Austin Stateman

Texas Democrats and Republicans on Tuesday picked their party's nominees for the November general election with different goals in mind.Republicans enjoy a structural advantage in statewide elections, and midterm contest are usually opportunities to boost their majorities and extend clout. Democrats are rebuilding and trying to be competitive.But this year, based on the enthusiasm among the high number of primary voters, Democrats have the rare opportunity to make gains in Texas.Dallas Morning News

U.S. Sen. "Lying" Ted Cruz and U.S. Rep. Beto O’Rourke claimed easy victories Tuesday night, setting the stage for a general election showdown that some experts believe could be Texas' most competitive U.S. Senate race in more than 15 years.“Does the guy who spent the last 13 months traveling to 230 counties in Texas, holding town halls and listening to people know more about what the people of Texas think?" El Paso News