Texas Democrat James Talarico targeted by disinformation and controversial donations

Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico has been the subject of both a disinformation campaign and scrutiny regarding campaign donations. Disinformation researchers report that a Russian propaganda syndicate used a network of bot accounts and paid influencers to spread a false sexual assault allegation against Talarico. The rumor was amplified by social media accounts masquerading as right-wing pundits before being debunked. The individual depicted in the smear campaign has confirmed the allegation was untrue.

Separately, FEC records show that Talarico’s campaign accepted $3,000 in donations from Nouman Ali Khan, the founder of the Bayyinah Institute. Khan has previously faced allegations from women who accused him of using his religious influence to enter into relationships with fans and attempting to buy their silence. Khan has denied all wrongdoing, and his legal counsel has described the claims as unfounded.