Democratic candidate James Talarico is aiming to become the first Democrat to win a US Senate seat in Texas since 1988, facing off against Republican Ken Paxton in a high-stakes midterm election. The 37-year-old state representative and Presbyterian seminarian enters the final stretch of the campaign with a narrow edge in most opinion polls, following a record-breaking $64m fundraising quarter.
The Rise of a Texas Democrat
Born James Dell Causey in Round Rock in 1989, Talarico grew up navigating challenging family circumstances before being adopted by his stepfather, Mark Talarico. He attended the University of Texas at Austin, where he led the University Democrats and participated in campus politics. After graduation, Talarico taught sixth-grade language arts at Rhodes Middle School in San Antonio, where former principal Edward Garcia noted his dedication to students in high-poverty areas.
Talarico was later elected to the Texas House of Representatives in 2018, representing a suburban swing district. In the legislature, he built a reputation as an authority on public school finance and public education, earning the moniker "Baby Gov" from Republican colleagues who recognized his broader ambitions.
Campaign Challenges and Right-Wing Attacks
As Talarico's threat to the Republican grip on power became clear, he faced a barrage of attacks in the final stretch of the campaign. Donald Trump rallied in the state and referred to him as "James Talafreako", while JD Vance implied he was gay, and right-wing influencers spread false claims about his health.
Despite conservative culture war advertisements funded by billionaire donors, Talarico has leaned into economic populism and his Christian faith. He defeated Jasmine Crockett in a primary election and has worked to unify the Democratic coalition across the state.
Key Facts of the Talarico Campaign
- James Talarico is a four-term state representative and Presbyterian seminarian.
- He faces Republican Ken Paxton, a scandal-haunted state attorney general backed by tech billionaire Elon Musk.
- His campaign raised a record $64m in the third quarter.
- Talarico taught sixth-grade language arts at Rhodes Middle School in San Antonio before entering politics.
- He is seeking to become the first Texas Democratic senator since 1988.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is James Talarico running against in the Senate election?
Talarico is running against Republican Ken Paxton, the state attorney general and Trump ally who has financial backing from tech billionaire Elon Musk.
When was James Talarico born and where did he grow up?
He was born James Dell Causey in Round Rock, a small town north of Austin, in 1989, and later grew up in the Austin area.
What is James Talarico's professional background before politics?
Before serving in the state house, Talarico taught sixth-grade language arts at Rhodes Middle School in San Antonio and led an education non-profit in Austin.