Democratic Gains in Texas Linked to Backlash on Immigration Enforcement

Democratic gains in Texas and other Latino-heavy districts are being linked to voter backlash against the Trump administration’s aggressive immigration enforcement, with South Texas counties swinging sharply toward Democrats and several Florida and Kansas races tightening or turning blue. In Texas, Democratic victories for attorney general and comptroller could reshape the state’s expanding partnership with ICE: the incoming attorney general has questioned direct participation in immigration enforcement, while the comptroller-elect has criticized grants that fund participating counties. The shift could complicate efforts to broaden the 287(g) program, which gives local officers federal immigration powers, as well as enforcement of a state law requiring certain sheriffs to seek ICE agreements. Voters and local officials have also described the raids’ effects on workers and businesses, including employees being detained or staying home out of fear. The electoral backlash reflects concerns that enforcement has reached beyond people with criminal records to longtime residents and workers, disrupting communities and local industries.