Vikki Goodwin, far left, and Democratic statewide nominees on July 18 Bush School survey has Democat in front of Paxton by four in fight that was tied in June as Abbott leads Hinojosa by 1 while Middleton ahead by 2 as Republican advantages evaporate with Trump religious liberty chief behind in polling for first time in four bids for powerful post. more   Paxton finds it tough to compete with Democrat in attracting supporters to promise protection swing events as survey for Texas Dems coordinated campaign shows Austin rep in front of AG by 34 points with independents and much more enthusiasm for bid. more James Talarico rallies supporters in Arlington on first tour stop August 5   Ken Paxton who trails 70 points among Blacks at Allen event August 4 Ex-primary rival suggests nominee's lead over AG is illusion as Abbott scrambles with new plan on issue GOP ignored before Dem rode it to inside track in Texas Senate bid that embarks on 11-city tour with several stops in rural towns and mid-size cities that are dark red. more   Texas Democrat ticket stars to appear with Bobby Pulido August 22   Republican Don Huffines sworn in as Texas comptroller on August 1 Abbott-appontee hits ground running with high-stakes gamble with plan to unleash 300 employees who are trained to examine businesses for money they owe state on fat-slashing mission in bureaucracy in move that could backfire on array of fronts. more   Rookie state rep who staged Sherman rally raises specter of Hail Mary when she seconds Dan Patrick claim that Dem who's studying for ministry needs prayers for comments they see as blasphemy despite lead in four latest Texas Senate polls. more State Rep Shelley Luther hosts Republican rally in Sherman on July 27   New survey finds Democrat leading GOP foe Paxton by 27 points among Texans who didn't vote in last general election when Trump won state by 14 while Austin state rep up by 2 points overall while governor in front of Dem by 6. more James Talarico interview on Texas Senate race on MS NOW on July 30   CNN's Erin Burnett speaks with Larry Sabato on Texas race on July 30 UVA analyst says he's starting to think Democrat is on track to win Texas Senate race like polls have shown in July because GOP foe is terrible candidate as Capitol Inside shifts all other statewide bouts from likely to leans R in rankings that have Senate clash as toss up. more