Fort Worth, Texas, February 1, 2026
In a significant political upset, Democrat Taylor Rehmet won a special election in Fort Worth, Texas, flipping a historically Republican State Senate seat. Rehmet, a labor union leader and Air Force veteran, triumphed over Republican Leigh Wambsganss by a margin of over 14 percentage points. This victory indicates a shift in voter sentiment in a district that had supported Trump by 17 percentage points in the past. As Rehmet prepares for his term, the political landscape in Texas may be changing.
Fort Worth, Texas – Democrat Taylor Rehmet Wins Special Election, Flipping Republican Senate Seat
Fort Worth, Texas – In a significant political upset, Democrat Taylor Rehmet won a special election on Saturday, flipping a Texas State Senate seat that had been reliably Republican. The district, encompassing Fort Worth and its conservative northern suburbs, was previously won by President Donald Trump by 17 percentage points in 2024. Rehmet, a labor union leader and Air Force veteran, secured a comfortable lead of more than 14 percentage points over Republican Leigh Wambsganss, a conservative activist. This victory adds to a trend of Democratic overperformance in special elections during Trump’s second term. The seat became vacant after Republican Senator Kelly Hancock resigned to take a statewide office. Despite Trump’s endorsement of Wambsganss, Rehmet received substantial national support, including $500,000 in advertising from VoteVets. Democratic leaders have hailed the result as a warning to Republicans, though Rehmet’s term will conclude in January 2027, requiring him to run again in November for a full term. Republicans continue to hold a solid majority in the Texas Legislature, which will not reconvene until 2027.
Background on Taylor Rehmet
Taylor Rehmet is an aircraft mechanic and union leader who previously served in the United States Air Force. Born in Garland, Texas, he grew up in a Republican household. After his military service, Rehmet joined Lockheed Martin in Fort Worth and became president of the local and state chapters of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers. His victory in this traditionally Republican district marks a notable shift in local political dynamics.
Implications of the Election
This election outcome is seen as a significant political shift, as the district has long been considered a Republican stronghold. Rehmet’s win is viewed as evidence that voters under the current administration are motivated to reject GOP candidates and their policies. The reaction underscores the heightened political engagement among voters in recent years and their willingness to support candidates who align with their values, despite traditional party lines.
Looking Ahead
Rehmet will serve the remainder of Senator Hancock’s term until January 2027. He is expected to face Wambsganss again in the November general election for a full four-year term. Despite this victory, the Republicans maintain a solid majority in the Texas Legislature, suggesting that Rehmet will have to work collaboratively even as he pushes for policies that resonate with his Democratic base.
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FAQ
Who is Taylor Rehmet?
Taylor Rehmet is an aircraft mechanic and union leader who previously served in the United States Air Force. He won a special election on January 31, 2026, to represent Texas State Senate District 9, flipping a seat that had been reliably Republican.
What is the significance of Rehmet’s victory?
Rehmet’s victory is significant because it flipped a district that had been reliably Republican, indicating a potential shift in voter sentiment. The district was previously won by President Donald Trump by 17 percentage points in 2024.
What are the next steps for Taylor Rehmet?
Rehmet will serve the remainder of Senator Kelly Hancock’s term until January 2027. He is expected to face Republican Leigh Wambsganss again in the November general election for a full four-year term.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Election Date | January 31, 2026 |
| Winner | Taylor Rehmet (Democrat) |
| District | Texas State Senate District 9 (Fort Worth area) |
| Previous Winner | President Donald Trump (17-point margin in 2024) |
| Opponent | Leigh Wambsganss (Republican) |
| Rehmet’s Background | Aircraft mechanic, union leader, Air Force veteran |
| Next Election | November 2026 for a full four-year term |
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