In fiercely competitive Democratic Senate race, social media influencers increasingly drive the conversation

“This campaign is fighting against the billionaire-controlled social media algorithms that divide us by elevating conflict and misinformation,” Ennis added in a statement. “The only way to end one-party rule in Texas is by turning down the temperature and bringing people together across our differences to defeat Republican extremism.”

Ennis said that a Facebook group called “Talarico for Texas” — in which a member with administrative privileges said Democrats had to “put forth a lighter complexion” than Crockett’s — is a “fan page not organized by the campaign.” Some Crockett supporters have presented the comment as evidence that Talarico’s campaign is sanctioning racism.

A Crockett spokesperson said her campaign does not pay any content creators, and any backing Crockett receives from influencers online is a reflection of their personal support for her.