Cornyn Aide Joins Talarico Campaign

In a rare cross-party move, Jacob Smith, a former top aide to Republican Senator John Cornyn, has joined the campaign of Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico. Smith, who spent five years as Cornyn's deputy legislative director and policy adviser, will serve as deputy policy director for Talarico's campaign, a hire announced on August 17, 2026. The switch comes as Talarico seeks to challenge Republican nominee Ken Paxton in the November general election for the seat Cornyn is vacating.

Smith confirmed his decision in a statement, framing it as a choice based on policy over party. "I've worked for Republicans like Senator Cornyn my entire career, but this year I'm proud to be joining James Talarico's campaign," he said. Smith argued that Talarico focuses on issues affecting working Texans and would work to lower costs for all residents, regardless of party affiliation. He also sharply criticized Paxton, calling him "the most corrupt, self-dealing politician in Texas" and urging fellow Republicans to vote against him.

The hire is considered highly unusual in political circles. One Republican operative who has worked on Senate races described such a cross-party staff move at...