Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico is ignoring recent criticism from President Donald Trump and other Republicans, stating that personal attacks do not address the economic concerns of voters. His comments come just before the start of the RNC Midterm Convention in Dallas on Wednesday.
In a CBS News Texas interview last Sunday, Talarico explained that he is trying to reach voters who supported Trump two years ago but are now disillusioned. He described his strategy as extending an open hand to those individuals to join his campaign movement.
Despite Talarico’s dismissal of the attacks, Republicans are expected to target him heavily during the convention. President Trump also announced on Friday that his super PAC, MAGA, INC., will spend at least $400 million on midterm elections, including funds for Republican Senate candidate Ken Paxton. This financial commitment suggests North Texas residents may soon see numerous television advertisements criticizing Talarico.
Trump has frequently attacked the Austin State Representative, most recently on Thursday by calling him "Talafreko" and labeling him one of the worst candidates he has ever seen. Talarico refused to engage in this exchange, arguing that such nicknames do not lower the cost of groceries, gas, utilities, or health care.
When asked if the criticism would hurt his campaign once negative ads begin airing, Talarico expressed confidence. He noted that his website is already selling "I'm a Talafreko" t-shirts as its best-selling item, suggesting he views the attacks as a non-issue.
Paxton has been campaigning in Parker County, where he criticized Talarico’s past votes on gender issues and sports participation. Paxton claimed Talarico voted for boys to compete in girls' sports and worked to transition children, while also disputing Talarico’s claim that modern science proves there are six sexes. Requests for comment from Paxton after his event were not returned.
