In a resurfaced interview, Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico shared that his church had gained attention by sheltering a family facing deportation. Laughing, he remarked, ‘Christianity is just another word for causing trouble.’
Talarico, a Presbyterian seminarian and a state representative, is challenging Republican Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton for a crucial Senate seat. His remarks on the ‘Weekly Witness’ show in June 2023 shed light on his faith’s influence on his political life. He described his church’s history of supporting progressive causes, stating, ‘Justice is just love out in public.’
Talarico recounted his church’s involvement with LGBTQ rights, allowing an atheist member, and housing an undocumented family on the brink of deportation by ICE. This upbringing motivated him to work in education and eventually run for office.
During the interview, Talarico criticized what he termed ‘Christo-fascism’ and the religious right for imposing a narrow version of Christianity. He cited examples of this in Texas laws, such as those mandating display of the Ten Commandments in schools and banning certain medical treatments for children.
Republicans have criticized his comments. RNC spokesperson Zach Kraft described Talarico as ‘dangerous,’ accusing him of encouraging illegal immigration and undermining law enforcement. Meanwhile, Talarico’s campaign spokesperson, JT Ennis, defended his dedication to Christian values, arguing that accusations against him are false. Ennis emphasized Talarico’s support for law enforcement and strengthened border security, contrasting it with allegations against Paxton.
Despite challenges from Republicans, including Paxton, Talarico recently led in a Fox News poll. Republicans contend that his progressive record may hinder him politically. Madison Cercy, Paxton’s campaign spokeswoman, criticized Talarico’s stance on various issues, portraying it as out of touch with mainstream beliefs.
Paxton, discussing Talarico’s lead in a recent poll, stated it is due to the timing of his primary runoff. He remains confident that the campaign will shift once voters learn more about Talarico.