The political landscape in Texas has taken an unexpected turn as Dan Cogdell, a prominent attorney who defended Ken Paxton during his impeachment trial and securities fraud casehas thrown his support behind Paxton’s Democratic opponent, James Talarico, in the U.S. Senate race.
Cogdell, known for his extensive legal career and high-profile cases, made the announcement on his podcast, stating that while he had defended Paxton for years, he believed the attorney general had lost sight of his core mission to represent the people of Texas. Cogdell praised Talarico for his commitment to unity and ability to appeal to a broad coalition of voters.
Cogdell’s Shift in Allegiance
Cogdell’s endorsement comes as a surprise to many, given his long-standing professional relationship with Paxton. The attorney first began representing Paxton in 2015, following the attorney general’s indictment for securities fraud. The case dragged on until 2026, when prosecutors dropped the charges in exchange for Paxton completing legal ethics courses, community service, and paying restitution.
Cogdell also served on Paxton’s defense team during his 2026 impeachment trialwhich ended in an acquittal by the Republican-controlled Texas Senate. Despite this history, Cogdell has chosen to support Talarico, citing the need for unity in politics and his belief that Talarico can bridge divides.
Talarico’s Broad Coalition
Talarico, a state representative from Round Rock, has been working to build a broad coalition of supporters, reaching out to Republicans, Democrats, and independents alike. In response to Cogdell’s endorsement, Talarico expressed gratitude and reiterated his message of inclusivity.
“If you voted for John Cornyn, you have a place in this campaign,”</ Talarico said, referring to the 24-year incumbent that Paxton defeated in the primary runoff. “If you’re a Republican tired of the corruption you’re seeing in government, you have a place in this campaign. Even if you’re Ken Paxton’s impeachment lawyer, you have a place in this campaign.”
Talarico’s campaign has gained momentum, with recent polls showing a narrow lead over Paxton. The race is seen as a rare opportunity for Democrats to win a statewide election in Texas, given Paxton’s legal and ethical baggage.
The Paxton Campaign’s Response
The Paxton campaign has dismissed Cogdell’s endorsement as a predictable development, pointing out that Cogdell is a Democrat who voted in the Democratic primary in 2026. The campaign has also highlighted Cogdell’s past donations to both Paxton and Talarico, questioning his loyalty.
Other members of Paxton’s impeachment defense team have also weighed in, expressing their continued support for Paxton. Attorney Tony Buzbee described Cogdell as a life-long Democrat and reiterated his support for Paxton. State Rep. Mitch Little, who also served on the defense team, expressed his love for Cogdell but described him as a Democrat who doesn’t vote very much.
Despite the Paxton campaign’s attempts to downplay the endorsement, Cogdell’s support for Talarico has added a new dynamic to the Texas Senate race, highlighting the divisions within the Republican Party and the potential for a Democratic victory in November.
