Newsweek, October 2026
Kacey Musgraves is the latest major country music star from Texas to throw her support behind Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico. Musgraves hosted Talarico at her concert in Dallas at the weekend, later rallying behind him in a social media spat with former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. Her endorsement follows others for Talarico from some of the most recognizable names in Texas music. Country music legend Willie Nelson, who has long supported Democratic candidates and progressive causes, endorsed Talarico in a video released by the Talarico campaign last week. “Hi, this is Wille Nelson,” the 93-year-old singer said in the video. “I’ve gotten to know James Talarico. He’s a good man who will be a good senator for the state of Texas. Please vote and vote for James Talarico.” Earlier this month The Chicks, who were formed in Dallas, endorsed Talarico by sharing a photo on Instagram wearing “I’m a Talafreako” shirts. “Get Ur Freak On,” they wrote in the caption, tagging Talarico and providing key dates for Texas voters to know.
