Former President Obama campaigned with Democratic U.S. Senate candidate James Talarico and gubernatorial candidate Gina Hinojosa at a taco restaurant in Austin on May 12, 2026. Obama's appearance signals national Democratic support for both candidates heading into a competitive 2026 midterm cycle where control of the Senate and House are in play. This follows a pattern of Obama elevating next-generation Democratic leaders in swing states — his Texas visit suggests the party views the Senate race as winnable in what is typically a Republican stronghold.