Progressive Texas organizers hail shock win as far-right Republicans left reeling

The Guardian - World NewsEN 5 min read 100% complete by Tyler Hicks in TexasFebruary 15, 2026 at 04:00 PM

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long article 5 min

In a surprising upset, Democrat Taylor Rehmet won a state Senate seat in Tarrant County, Texas, a Republican stronghold since 1992. Rehmet, a local union leader, defeated Republican Leigh Wambsganss despite being significantly outspent, with much of Wambsganss's funding coming from conservative megadonors. Progressive organizers in Fort Worth, including Chris Tackett of "See It. Name It. Fight It," attribute the victory to local grassroots organizing efforts. These organizers have been working to counter the influence of Christian nationalism and far-right actors in the county. While Republicans cited low turnout, local advocates believe their organizing efforts were crucial to the Democratic win and will be essential for future victories in Texas.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Mendi Tackett 50% Alexander Montalvo 50% See It. Name It. Fight It. 60% Texas Republican Party 60% Leigh Wambsganss ×260% Mike Lang ×270% Taylor Rehmet ×270% Fort Worth ×470% Tarrant County ×270% Wilks brothers ×275% Tim Dunn ×275% Chris Tackett ×480%

Keywords

local organizing 90% democratic victory 80% far-right republicans 80% progressive organizers 80% christian nationalism 70% tarrant county 70% texas politics 70% campaign donations 60% extremism 50% public education 50%

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The Guardian - World News

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local organizing democratic victory far-right republicans progressive organizers christian nationalism tarrant county texas politics campaign donations extremism public education

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