DALLAS — At the heart of Black political engagement in Dallas, Friendship-West Baptist Church has become a pivotal battleground in the Texas Senate race. The church, which counts Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) among its members, has seen its share of political foot traffic, with figures like Beto O’Rourke recently encouraging voter registration. However, one notable absence has been Democratic Senate nominee James Talarico, raising eyebrows among the congregation.

Despite his efforts to connect with Black communities across Texas, including visits to other Black churches and meetings with community leaders, Talarico’s absence from Friendship-West hasn’t gone unnoticed. “Come and make the ask. Come and try to earn the vote,” urged Alan Williams, a congregant and Crockett supporter, highlighting a sentiment of neglect felt by some voters.

Talarico faces the daunting task of courting nearly 3 million Black voters in Texas, a demographic crucial to his campaign, especially following a primary that left many voters feeling overlooked. “We have people who show up in our churches during the election season, but who don't show up for us at the level of policy beyond November,” criticized David Malcolm McGruder, the church’s executive pastor.

In response, Talarico expressed a desire to unify and engage directly with Black Texans. “There's no way to win Texas without winning the trust and the support of Black voters. Period. Full stop,” he stated, acknowledging the critical need to build a cohesive coalition.

However, the path is fraught with challenges. Talarico was not the first choice for many Black voters in the primary, and the race has been further complicated by accusations of racial insensitivity and voter suppression issues. Moreover, the Democratic Party’s historical tendency to take Black voters for granted has not gone unnoticed, adding another layer of skepticism towards Talarico’s campaign.

Despite these hurdles, Talarico is receiving support from Democratic groups and Black state lawmakers. Crystal Chism, president of the Dallas County chapter of Texas Coalition of Black Democrats, emphasized the urgency of moving beyond past grievances to focus on the election: “We need to make the main thing the main thing, and that's getting Talarico elected.”

Yet, a significant endorsement from Crockett herself has been tepid. She quickly conceded the race and endorsed Talarico but has been largely inactive in rallying support for him. Talarico remains hopeful for more visible support, stating, “I would love nothing more than to have her on the campaign trail.”

As the election approaches, the pressure mounts for Talarico to demonstrate genuine engagement and address the concerns of Black voters effectively. With significant financial resources and endorsements from key figures like O’Rourke, Talarico’s campaign might still sway the undecided. But as state Sen. Royce West points out, while Talarico is making strides, “Is it where it needs to be? No.”

With the Republican candidates embroiled in their own challenges, the opportunity is ripe for Talarico, but winning over the hearts and votes of Black Texans remains a formidable challenge that will require more than just campaign stops and speeches.