U.S. Air Force Col. Terry Virts, a former F-16 fighter pilot and NASA astronaut, is the other Democrat in the race.

Former U.S. Rep. Colin Allred has launched a campaign for the Senate seat held by Republican John Cornyn, pledging to be a voice for Texans wracked by higher costs of living and what he views as a “rigged” political system.

Another Texan has joined the race for a U.S. Senate seat currently occupied by John Cornyn. The four-term senator is now facing challenges from both parties.