Thread by @TexasTribune

1/ The #DemDebate is happening in Houston, Texas tonight.

This isn’t just some consolation prize for not getting the Democratic National Convention.

The future of American politics is here.

After all — Democrats say Harris County could turn Texas blue. bit.ly/34L7Wfl

2/ Democrats are hoping they can run up the margins to offset Republican strengths in rural areas, putting Texas in play.

"If we can turn this into a blue stronghold, which is what we have been building up to, we can flip the state." — @lillieschechter

bit.ly/34L7Wfl

@lillieschechter 3/ @realDonaldTrump lost by 12 percentage points in Harris County in 2016.

And then @TedCruz lost to @BetoORourke by 17 percentage points in Harris County in 2018.

What happens if that number keeps going up?

bit.ly/34L7Wfl #DemDebate

@lillieschechter @realDonaldTrump @tedcruz @BetoORourke 4/ For decades, the GOP enjoyed a stronghold on the county, with a few exceptions — until Donald Trump happened. bit.ly/34L7Wfl #DemDebate

@lillieschechter @realDonaldTrump @tedcruz @BetoORourke 5/ Republicans, meanwhile, are trying to reverse the tide.

"Well, they say if you lose Harris County, you lose Texas. ... That’s the deal," said Charlotte Lampe, who has been involved in the Harris County Republican Party for over 40 years. bit.ly/34L7Wfl #DemDebate

@lillieschechter @realDonaldTrump @tedcruz @BetoORourke 6/ A 2010 Republican comeback in Harris County remains fresh on the minds of local Democrats.

Democrats credit their recent success to voter registration and a crowded Democratic ballot. bit.ly/34L7Wfl #DemDebate

@lillieschechter @realDonaldTrump @tedcruz @BetoORourke 77/ Both parties are anxious.

Republicans might need to take back Harris County to save the state. Democrats recognize this.

And with that at the forefront of everyone's minds, we head towards 2020.

bit.ly/34L7Wfl #DemDebate