Texas is still Republican territory. But it is no longer being treated like territory Republicans can ignore.
President Trump is returning to the state for the third time in a month as the party tries to stabilize several competitive races before the midterms.
The significance is not that Texas has suddenly changed parties. It is that presidential time, money and attention are being spent in a state that was supposed to be an easier part of the Republican map.
That makes Texas a useful indicator of the broader midterm environment: a party can still lead in a state while worrying about turnout, margins and specific candidates.
THE QUESTION
Is Texas genuinely shifting — or are Republicans simply spending early to prevent a late surprise?
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