Joe Rogan Pleads With Liberals Not to Turn Texas Blue

Joe Rogan urged Democrats not to push Texas into a Democratic stronghold, warning that moving the state “too far left” could disrupt what he says has made it attractive—especially Austin. Speaking on The Joe Rogan Experience, the podcast host, who relocated from Los Angeles to Austin in 2020, argued the Texas capital’s appeal comes from blending progressive local culture with the influence of a mostly conservative state. He described Austin as one of the most liberal, easygoing, progressive cities, adding that even local progressives are “more reasonable.” Rogan’s comments followed a Fox News poll suggesting Texas could be more competitive statewide in 2026 than in 2024: Democrat James Talarico leads Republican Ken Paxton 51% to 47%. The poll also cites 89% support for Paxton among Republicans and 98% among Democrats, while showing former President Donald Trump’s favorability among Texans has dipped to 45% favorable and 54% unfavorable. Rogan linked Austin’s model to the broader conservative framework of Texas, saying changing the state’s politics would alter the balance.