Democrats have fresh hope to win back Senate – could they really pull it off?

Democrats would need to keep their existing seats and flip four to regain control of the Senate – but a host of factors gives the party hope. Illustration: Guardian Design/Getty Images

After Texas Republicans chose the beleaguered attorney general, Ken Paxton, as their party’s nominee for US Senate on Tuesday, Democrats are feeling bullish that they could pull off a victory in the red-leaning state – and maybe win back the Senate in this year’s midterm elections.

Paxton – whose history includes an impeachment, fraud charges and an alleged affair – beat incumbent John Cornyn after receiving Trump’s blessing in the most expensive primary this year. In November he will face James Talarico, a young state lawmaker and pastor, who won the Democratic primary amid a rising national profile.