Fort Worth, Texas, February 2, 2026
Democrat Taylor Rehmet has secured a significant victory in a special election for the Texas State Senate, flipping a traditionally Republican district. Rehmet, a labor union leader, defeated Republican Leigh Wambsganss by over 14 percentage points. This election is seen as a part of an ongoing trend of Democratic success in special elections, suggesting a shift in the political landscape. Rehmet will serve until January and will face Wambsganss again in the November general election for a full term.
Fort Worth, Texas
Democrat Taylor Rehmet Wins Texas State Senate Seat in Special Election
Democrat Taylor Rehmet has won a special election for the Texas State Senate, flipping a district that President Donald Trump won by 17 points in 2024. Rehmet, a labor union leader and veteran, defeated Republican Leigh Wambsganss in the Fort Worth-area district. With almost all votes counted, Rehmet had a comfortable lead of more than 14 percentage points. This victory adds to Democrats’ record of overperforming in special elections so far this cycle.
Details of the Election
The seat became vacant after four-term Republican incumbent Kelly Hancock resigned to take a statewide office. Hancock had easily won election each time he ran for the office, and Republicans have held the seat for decades. The district is redder than its home, Tarrant County. Trump won the county by 5 points in 2024, but Democratic President Joe Biden carried it in 2020 by about 1,800 votes out of more than 834,000 cast.
Rehmet’s Campaign and Support
Rehmet had support from national organizations, including the Democratic National Committee (DNC) and VoteVets, a veterans group that said it spent $500,000 on ads. Rehmet, who served in the Air Force and works as a machinist, focused on lowering costs, supporting public education, and protecting jobs.
Republican Response
Wambsganss called Saturday’s result “a wakeup call for Republicans in Tarrant County, Texas, and the nation” and warned her party not to be complacent. She noted that “too many Republicans stayed home,” highlighting the need for increased mobilization among Republican voters.
Looking Ahead
Rehmet’s victory allows him to serve only until early January. He will face Wambsganss again in the November general election to decide who occupies the seat for a full four-year term. The Texas Legislature is not set to reconvene until 2027, and the GOP still will have a comfortable majority.
Background Context
This special election is part of a series of unexpected Democratic victories in traditionally Republican-held seats. For instance, in August 2025, Democrat Catelin Drey won a special election in Iowa, breaking the Republican supermajority in the state Senate. These outcomes suggest a shifting political landscape and increased Democratic engagement in local and state elections.
Key Features of the Post
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Winner | Taylor Rehmet |
| Opponent | Leigh Wambsganss |
| District | Fort Worth-area, Texas |
| Previous Incumbent | Kelly Hancock |
| Election Date | February 1, 2026 |
| Rehmet’s Background | Labor union leader and veteran |
| Rehmet’s Focus | Lowering costs, supporting public education, protecting jobs |
| Republican Response | Warning against complacency, noting Democratic energy |
| Next Election | November general election for a full four-year term |
In conclusion, Taylor Rehmet’s victory marks a significant shift in the political dynamics of the Fort Worth area, showcasing the power of community engagement and the importance of mobilizing support ahead of upcoming elections. As we look toward the November general election, it’s crucial for local business owners and community members to remain vigilant and supportive of their representatives, ensuring the continued growth of our local economy and a vibrant political landscape.
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Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
