One of the most closely watched contests in the primary runoff election is unfolding in Dallas County, where two prominent Democrats are competing for the newly drawn 33rd Congressional District.
Former Congressman Colin Allred is facing off against Julie Johnson, the congresswoman who succeeded him after his departure from Congress. The race has become increasingly competitive and contentious, with both candidates drawing contrasts over their records and priorities in Washington.
During early voting last week, Allred appeared in Dallas alongside Jasmine Crockett, who endorsed his campaign after receiving his backing in her unsuccessful U.S. Senate bid.
Speaking to reporters, Allred framed the election as a referendum on representation and core Democratic priorities.
“We have so much on the line in this election,” Allred said. “I want to make sure we have a representative who stands up to this President, who will protect our voting rights and restore those voting rights that have been under historic assault, and will make sure that working people will get ahead.”
Crockett echoed that message, highlighting Allred’s work on voting access before entering elected office.
“When you dig into the details and the work that has been done before somebody has ever sought elected office, Colin Allred was working on voting issues before he was ever elected to office,” she said, referencing his time in the Obama administration. Crockett argued that protecting access to voting remains central to broader Democratic priorities.
Meanwhile, Johnson campaigned in Dallas with James Talarico, who endorsed her in the runoff.
Johnson expressed confidence in her campaign’s position heading into Election Day, citing positive feedback from voters and strong turnout at campaign events.
Talarico told supporters the runoff would serve as an early indicator of Democratic enthusiasm and organizing strength ahead of November.
On the Republican side, Patrick Gillespie and John Sims are competing in their own runoff for the district. However, because the newly drawn district is considered strongly Democratic, the winner of the Democratic contest is widely expected to enter the general election as the favorite.
