Country music icon Willie Nelson endorsed Democratic U.S. Senate candidate James Talarico in a video released on October 8. Nelson stated in the clip that he had gotten to know the Texas state representative and urged voters to support him in the November 3 election.

"I've gotten to know James Talarico. He's a good man who will be a good senator for the state of Texas. Please vote for James Talarico," Nelson said in the video.

The endorsement coincided with the launch of Rural Texans for Talarico, an initiative focused on issues including data centers, healthcare worker recruitment, and internet access in rural areas.

Talarico, a Democratic state representative, is challenging Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton for the open Senate seat. The race has drawn significant attention as one of the most competitive contests in Texas this cycle. Recent polls have shown the candidates in a tight contest.

Nelson and Talarico appeared together earlier this year at the singer's annual Fourth of July Picnic in Austin. The 93-year-old Nelson has a long record of supporting Democratic candidates in Texas and nationally, including former Rep. Beto O'Rourke in prior statewide races.

Talarico's campaign has highlighted the endorsement as part of a broader effort to appeal to voters across the state ahead of early voting, which begins October 19. Paxton's campaign has focused on contrasting the candidates' records on issues such as energy policy and taxes.

The endorsement adds to Talarico's list of support from high-profile names from the entertainment industry. Other musicians, including Jack Antonoff and members of Yo La Tengo, are also supporting the Democratic candidate in the lead up to November.