Many things defy my limited level of understanding, such as: Why is the race for U.S. senator in Texas so close that I cannot even begin to think of it as a done deal?

Democratic nominee James Talarico seeks to defeat Republican nominee Ken Paxton in the race to succeed GOP Sen. John Cornyn, who lost to Paxton in this year’s primary campaign. On paper, this campaign should shape up as a 60-40% blowout for Talarico. It’s not. It’s going down to the wire.

Paxton is a crook. He is the most contaminated politician in Texas. Consider just a few factors.

He was indicted by a Collin County grand jury in 2015 for securities fraud violations. Many of his top legal eagles resigned and accused him of bribery and other crimes related to political favors he allegedly gave to friends and allies. The Texas House — dominated by a Republican super majority — impeached Paxton on a variety of allegations. His personal wealth has grown enormously during his time as AG. Paxton’s wife, Sen. Angela Paxton, divorced him on “biblical grounds,” a shorthand for an allegation that he cheated on her.

Paxton won the GOP primary on the back of an endorsement by Donald Trump … another corrupt clown.

Some leading Texas Republicans, including those from the George W. Bush family, have announced they are backing Talarico.

I don’t know how this contest will end. I am just waiting for the end to arrive in less than two weeks. Republicans are going all-out to paint Talarico as a weirdo. He’s not. The MAGA faithful hope they can energize their diminishing base to back Paxton.

Despite all the baggage, all the damage Paxton has inflicted on himself, this race might be heading for a photo finish.

It’s often said that “turnout matters.” Texans are setting midterm early-voting records. That, ladies and gents, might be the final thing that gives me hope that we are going to get some actual relief from the cesspool stench emanating from the Texas Republican Party.