Ken Paxton and James Talarico Clash Over Identity, Religion and Funding in Texas Senate Race

Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton, the Republican nominee for the U.S. Senate seat from Texas, has intensified attacks on Democratic opponent State Rep. James Talarico, calling his past statements “weird.” Paxton highlighted Talarico’s earlier remarks about the existence of six genders, his claim that “God is non‑binary,” and his expressed “love for trans children,” framing them as a departure from traditional Christianity. Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick added that Talarico is “going to Hell, for sure,” while Paxton declined to weigh in, saying only God can judge.

Talarico, a former middle‑school teacher and Presbyterian seminarian, has promoted gun‑control measures such as mandatory storage laws and criminalizing private firearm transfers, and has run a “non‑meat” campaign emphasizing veganism. He has also described himself as a “border‑security Democrat” and defended his past controversial comments as a distraction from Paxton’s record, including the former attorney general’s 2023 impeachment acquittal.

Fundraising has become another battleground. Talarico raised $11 million in a single month through ActBlue, while Paxton, who defeated incumbent Sen. John Cornyn in a runoff, pointed to his prior out‑spending advantage and endorsement from former President Donald Trump.

Democratic supporters have responded with hyperbolic slogans, joking that “we’re all trans, vegan, gay and going to hell” in defense of Talarico, underscoring the cultural flashpoints shaping the contest.