Fort Worth, Texas, February 3, 2026
In a major political upset, Democrat Taylor Rehmet has won the special election for Texas State Senate District 9, defeating Republican Leigh Wambsganss. This victory comes in a traditionally Republican district, indicating a shift in political dynamics and raising concerns for GOP leaders as Rehmet secures a significant victory margin. The election highlights changing voter sentiment in the region as the Democratic momentum builds ahead of the midterms.
Fort Worth, Texas – Democrat Taylor Rehmet Secures Unlikely Victory in State Senate Special Election
Fort Worth, Texas – In a surprising political upset, Democrat Taylor Rehmet won the special election for Texas State Senate District 9, a seat that had been held by Republicans for decades. Rehmet, an Air Force veteran and labor union leader, defeated Republican candidate Leigh Wambsganss, a conservative activist, in a district that President Donald Trump had won by 17 percentage points in 2024. Rehmet’s victory margin exceeded 14 percentage points, signaling a significant shift in the region’s political landscape.
Election Details
The special election was held on January 31, 2026, to fill the seat vacated by former State Senator Kelly Hancock, who resigned to become the acting state comptroller. Rehmet’s campaign focused on working-class issues, including lowering costs and supporting public education. Despite Wambsganss’s endorsement by President Trump and substantial campaign spending, Rehmet’s message resonated with voters, leading to his decisive win.
Political Implications
Rehmet’s unexpected victory has garnered national attention, as it reflects a broader trend of Democratic overperformance in special elections since 2025. Republican leaders, including Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, have acknowledged the loss as a wake-up call, attributing it to low voter turnout and increased Democratic motivation under Trump’s return to the White House. The outcome suggests potential challenges for Republicans in upcoming elections, particularly in districts previously considered safe.
Background Context
District 9 encompasses parts of Fort Worth and its northern suburbs, areas that have traditionally leaned Republican. In the 2024 presidential election, Trump secured 58% of the vote in this district. Rehmet’s win marks the first time a Democrat has represented northern Tarrant County in the Senate since before the 1982 election. This shift could influence future political dynamics in the region, especially as the 2026 midterm elections approach.
Looking Ahead
Rehmet will serve a short term until January 2027 and is expected to face Wambsganss again in the November general election for a full four-year term. The Republican-controlled Texas Legislature now stands at 18 Republicans, 12 Democrats, and one vacancy. Rehmet’s victory adds to the Democratic momentum heading into the 2026 midterms, potentially altering the balance of power in the state Senate.
Key Features of the Election
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Election Date | January 31, 2026 |
| District | Texas State Senate District 9 |
| Winner | Taylor Rehmet (Democrat) |
| Runner-up | Leigh Wambsganss (Republican) |
| District’s 2024 Presidential Vote | 58% for Donald Trump |
| Rehmet’s Victory Margin | Over 14 percentage points |
| Rehmet’s Campaign Focus | Working-class issues, lowering costs, supporting public education |
| Next Election | November 2026 General Election for a full four-year term |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Taylor Rehmet?
Taylor Rehmet is an Air Force veteran and labor union leader who won the special election for Texas State Senate District 9 on January 31, 2026. He defeated Republican candidate Leigh Wambsganss in a district that President Donald Trump had won by 17 percentage points in 2024.
What is the significance of Rehmet’s victory?
Rehmet’s victory is significant because it marks the first time a Democrat has represented northern Tarrant County in the Senate since before the 1982 election. This shift indicates a potential change in the region’s political dynamics and suggests challenges for Republicans in upcoming elections.
What are the next steps for Taylor Rehmet?
Rehmet will serve a short term until January 2027 and is expected to face Leigh Wambsganss again in the November general election for a full four-year term. His victory adds to the Democratic momentum heading into the 2026 midterms, potentially altering the balance of power in the Texas Senate.
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