A Democrat and Republican will face off in a runoff election to fill a vacant state Senate seat in Tarrant County.
The big picture: Democratic candidate Taylor Rehmet accrued more votes than Republican Leigh Wambsganss, a well-known conservative activist, in the traditionally red district.
But neither captured a majority.
The latest: Rehmet, an aircraft mechanic and union leader, garnered 47.6% of the vote, compared to 36%forWambsganss.
Former Southlake Mayor John Huffman, a Republican, fell behind with16.5%.
State of play: Rehmet sought to appeal to independent voters and moderate Republicans who don't want "MAGA extremism."
Wambsganss, Patriot Mobile's chief communications officer, is backed by major MAGA players, including President Trump, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick.
Context: Acting state comptroller Kelly Hancock vacated the seat in June.
The Republican won 60% of the vote in November 2022.
What's next: The runoff election is Dec. 13. Early voting will take place Dec. 1-9.
