Can Beto O'Rourke help nudge Joaquin Castro into governor's race?

U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro was among dozens of Democrats and their allies at a rally Wednesday to denounce what they say was a Trump-inspired agenda in the Texas Legislature. U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro was among dozens of Democrats and their allies at a rally Wednesday to denounce what they say was a Trump-inspired agenda in the Texas Legislature. Image 1 of / 1 Caption Close Can Beto O'Rourke help nudge Joaquin Castro into governor's race? 1 / 1 Back to Gallery

AUSTIN -- A month of non-stop campaigning around Texas has Beto O'Rourke convinced there is one thing that could super-charge voters and improve Democratic chances at winning up and down the ballot in 2018.

Joaquin Castro for governor.

O'Rourke, the El Paso Democrat aiming to take on Sen. Ted Cruz in 2018, told Politico he's been trying to encourage Castro to get into the race against Republican Gov. Greg Abbott, who so far has no major Democratic opponent lining up to challenge him.

"The state is already energized," he said. "It would be supercharged if he would get out there."

O'Rourke, who serves in Congress with Castro, said he feels something unique brewing in Texas that he says can help Democrats with just the right candidates on the circuit.

"It will take a total commitment, and obviously it's going to be tough. But there's never been a better year than this one," O'Rourke said.

Just last week, Castro was in Austin for a rally with Democrats unloading criticism on Gov. Greg Abbott. But though he sounded like he was itching to get into the race, Castro repeatedly brushed of questions about whether he will run against Abbott.

"Well I have a job right now and my plan is to run for re-election," the San Antonio Democrat said of seeking re-election to Congress.