Senator-elect James Talarico used his victory speech Tuesday night to strike a conciliatory tone. He told people who did not vote for him that he would fight for them as hard as he would for those who did. Talarico said that when people extend an open hand rather than a closed fist, they will be surprised by who accepts it.
On Wednesday, Talarico repeated the message in an interview with Good Morning America. He described ways he would work with Republicans in Congress, including on comprehensive immigration reform. "I'm a border security Democrat," he said.
Chris Daniel, a Paxton supporter who ran unsuccessfully as a Republican for Harris County District Clerk, said he is receptive to the outreach. He said other Paxton supporters may need convincing. "It's gonna come down to results," Daniel said. Talarico supporter Micael Cano said Talarico "did not create division among anyone." Daniel also said Talarico will have to learn the job as a freshman senator, pointing to Ted Cruz as an example.