Texas Senate race takes center stage in Nov. 3 general election
Tarrant County polls open at 7 a.m. Tuesday for a contest between Attorney General Ken Paxton and Rep. James Talarico, alongside strict ID and voting rules.
By Lucas Navarro ·
The general election in Tarrant County begins Tuesday at 7 a.m., with polls closing at 7 p.m. The ballot features a U.S. Senate race between Republican incumbent Ken Paxton and Democratic challenger James Talarico. Paxton, who has served as Texas Attorney General since 2014, defeated Sen. John Cornyn in the Republican primary. Talarico, a former middle school teacher and state representative, defeated Rep. Jasmine Crockett in the Democratic primary.
Registered voters in Tarrant County may cast ballots at any Vote Center in the county. The Tarrant County Elections website lists all available centers and provides a map showing expected wait times. Voters can also check their registration status and polling location through the Secretary of State's online portal, which requires a Texas Driver's License number or birth details.
Strict rules govern the voting environment. Voters must present a valid photo ID, such as a Texas Driver's License, passport, or military ID. For voters between 18 and 69, the ID must be current or expired by no more than four years. Those 70 and older may use an expired ID for any length of time. If a voter lacks an acceptable photo ID, supporting documents like a utility bill or bank statement are permitted.
Inside the voting room, electronic devices including cell phones, cameras, and sound recorders are prohibited. Recording is banned within 100 feet of a voting station. Voters are also forbidden from wearing clothing that references a candidate or political party within that same 100-foot zone. While guns are generally not allowed, peace officers on or off duty may bring a handgun.
Voters may bring sample ballots or notes to the polls. Children under 18 are allowed to accompany a parent who is voting. Anyone in line at 7 p.m. will be permitted to cast a ballot. The Secretary of State's office advises calling the toll-free hotline at 1-800-252-VOTE for questions or to file formal complaints via email or mail.
Sample ballots for Tarrant County, Dallas, Collin, and Denton counties are available for download. The election covers numerous other ticket items across the state. Voters should verify their specific polling location using the county’s early voting center finder before heading to the polls.
