Colin Allred announced that he ended his campaign for the United States Senate from Texas and will instead seek a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives, setting up a primary contest against U.S. Rep. Julie Johnson.
Allred made the announcement in Houston, explaining that he stepped out of the statewide race to avoid what he described as an expensive and divisive runoff that could drain Democratic resources ahead of the general election.
He said internal reviews of polling, fundraising, and statewide support indicated that the Senate primary would likely head toward a prolonged runoff, limiting the party’s ability to focus on defeating the Republican incumbent.
Allred did not release fundraising totals during the announcement, but said his team will shift remaining campaign funds and staff toward the House race. Johnson, who represents a North Texas district that includes parts of the Dallas area, has not issued a detailed response. She previously signaled plans to run for reelection.
The Democratic primary in Johnson’s district will determine whether she or Allred advances to the general election. Election officials have not yet released the finalized candidate list, and the Texas Democratic Party will certify the primary ballot after the filing deadline.
Allred’s exit from the Senate race occurred only hours before observers expected U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett to move forward with her own Senate campaign preparations. Crockett, who also represents a Dallas-area district, has not publicly confirmed final details of her potential bid. Party strategists said the timing of Allred’s decision could influence the lineup for the Senate contest.
Allred’s withdrawal opens room for other Democrats seeking the nomination to challenge the Republican incumbent senator. Campaign finance filings will later show how Allred’s Senate committee reallocates its remaining funds under federal rules governing transfers between committees.
Allred said his House campaign will continue to focus on health care, economic policy, and voting rights, themes he emphasized in his Senate run. He did not announce immediate events but said his team will release a new schedule in the coming days.