WEATHERFORD, Texas — With Election Day approaching, Vice President JD Vance brought the Republican campaign message to Weatherford, headlining a rally at JRJ Construction in support of Republican U.S. Senate candidate Ken Paxton.
Hundreds of supporters packed the venue, while others gathered outside to watch the event on screens after the indoor space filled up.
The rally brought together Republican candidates, supporters and voters who said they wanted to show their support and make their concerns heard ahead of the election.
WATCH: Context Corner reporter BJ Lewis reports from Weatherford as JD Vance campaigns for Ken Paxton, criticizes Democratic candidate James Talarico and urges Texans to turn out on Election Day.
Vance rallies Republicans in Weatherford
Vance headlined the rally as Republicans made a final effort to mobilize voters across Texas.
His speech focused on the Senate race, with Vance urging Texans to support Paxton and criticizing Democratic candidate James Talarico.
Vance called on voters to send a message at the ballot box on November 3, telling the crowd:
“I need you to send a message on November the 3rd that America belongs to those who love it, not those who hate it.”
He also criticized Talarico’s positions on transgender issues and accused him of seeking to divide Americans by race. Those statements were part of Vance’s campaign speech at the event.
Vance ended his remarks by urging supporters to vote for Ken Paxton.
Voters cite family, education and household concerns
Attendees gave different reasons for coming to the rally, including concerns about their families, education, border policy and government spending.
One attendee said the issues that affect his household were a major reason for supporting the candidates he believed would best represent individual Texans.
Another said the family unit was facing serious challenges and pointed to human trafficking, education and the next generation as issues that needed attention.
One attendee also called for Americans to move beyond political divisions, saying:
“We have to stop being left or right, and we have to start being Americans.”
Ken Paxton addresses supporters
Republican U.S. Senate candidate Ken Paxton also spoke at the rally, thanking Vance for coming to Texas and supporting candidates on the ballot.
His appearance came as the Senate contest between Paxton and Democrat James Talarico entered its final stretch.
Vance used the event to make the case for Paxton while directing criticism toward Talarico.
The final push comes down to turnout
The Weatherford rally was part of a broader effort by both political parties to energize supporters before Election Day.
Millions of Texans had already cast ballots, according to the report, with additional voting expected before the final count.
But as BJ Lewis reported from the event, campaign speeches and rally crowds can only go so far. The outcome ultimately depends on the votes cast and counted.
Sources: Statements and interviews recorded at the Republican rally at JRJ Construction in Weatherford.
Reporting: BJ Lewis, Context Corner