Democratic Texas Senate nominee James Talarico has shifted his stance on both border security and child gender-affirming care, drawing attention in a closely watched race against Republican Ken Paxton. Talarico, who previously advocated for a "welcome mat" at the U.S.-Mexico border, now identifies as a "border security Democrat" and has criticized President Joe Biden’s policies. Meanwhile, he has reversed his earlier support for gender reassignment surgeries for minors, stating he now opposes them.
Border Security Shift
Talarico’s shift on immigration comes after months of criticism from fellow Democrats, including Texas Rep. Henry Cuellar, who represents a border district. In a January primary debate, Talarico compared the border to a "front porch" with a "welcome mat," but later described Biden’s policies as causing "utter chaos." He also called for reforming U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), arguing it should focus on immigration enforcement rather than domestic policing.
Gender Care Reversal
Talarico’s stance on gender-affirming care for minors has also evolved. In May 2023, he praised trans children advocating for healthcare access, calling such care "life-saving." However, during a recent podcast appearance, he stated he now opposes gender reassignment surgeries for minors. The reversal follows Texas’s 2023 ban on such procedures, which Talarico voted against.
Key Endorsement
Talarico’s campaign gained momentum with the endorsement of Dan Cogdell, a Houston attorney who defended Paxton during his 2023 impeachment trial. Cogdell, a registered Democrat, praised Talarico’s focus on unity and bipartisanship, contrasting him with Paxton, whom he accused of prioritizing Donald Trump’s agenda over Texas’s needs. Paxton’s campaign dismissed the endorsement, noting Cogdell’s Democratic affiliation.
The race has drawn national attention, with Democrats hoping to flip Texas and Republicans aiming to send Paxton, a Trump ally, to the Senate. Polling shows a tight contest, with both candidates framing the other as too radical for Texas.