Two members of the Bush family are backing Democrat James Talarico in the closely contested race for a Senate seat from Texas, according to a BBC report published 21 October 2026.
Neil Bush: “I cast my ballot for Talarico”
Neil Bush wrote on Facebook that he voted for Talarico as early voting began. The BBC quoted his post: “My vote was motivated by two things: deep concern about Ken Paxton’s record and genuine admiration for the character and principles I see in James Talarico.” The BBC also reported that Neil Bush said he opposes Republican nominee Ken Paxton because of Paxton’s efforts to help President Donald Trump contest his 2020 loss to Joe Biden.
Barbara Bush donation noted in filings
Barbara Bush, daughter of former President George W. Bush, has reportedly donated $2,500 to a political action committee supporting Talarico, according to campaign finance records cited by the BBC. The outlet said it contacted her for comment.
Texas stakes and a tight race
No Democrat has won a Texas Senate seat since 1988, the BBC noted. The report says opinion polls show Paxton and Talarico running neck and neck ahead of the 3 November midterm elections, which will determine control of Congress.
Paxton’s path and Bush family context
The BBC reported that Paxton previously survived impeachment by fellow Republicans in the Texas state legislature and defeated George P. Bush, son of Jeb Bush, in a primary challenge. The piece also recapped the Bush family’s history with Trump: former President George H. W. Bush once called Trump a “blow hard” and said he voted for Democrat Hillary Clinton in 2016; former President George W. Bush has made veiled criticisms of Trump; and George P. Bush backed Trump during his own campaigns.
Neil Bush’s background
According to the BBC, Neil Bush is a businessman who has never held political office and was a director of Silverado Savings and Loan, which collapsed in 1988 and cost taxpayers more than $1 billion.
