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Talarico attacks Paxton at packed rally as Democrats eye Texas breakthrough
James Talarico used his final rally before Election Day to attack Republican Senate rival Ken Paxton, comparing him to an obnoxious bar patron who adds his drinks to someone else’s bill. The event in Austin drew a packed crowd of Democrats hoping to end the party’s 32-year run without winning a statewide Texas election.
Talarico, a 37-year-old state representative, also called for “big dreams” for Texas and said he wanted to represent people who could not afford influence. Late polls cited in the article put him seven points ahead of Paxton, whose record includes corruption scandals and impeachment by fellow Republicans; Elon Musk had given at least $168 million to support Paxton. Democrats needed to gain four Senate seats to take control of the chamber, while rallygoers expressed optimism tempered by concern about turnout.
In short
- Talarico likened Paxton to an obnoxious bar patron.
- Late polls put Talarico seven points ahead.
- Texas Democrats hoped to break a 32-year statewide losing streak.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Democrats can argue that Talarico offers a chance to break a long stretch without a statewide victory and to represent Texans who cannot buy political influence. They may see Paxton’s scandals and outside financial support as reasons to choose a change in leadership, while the close race makes turnout especially consequential.
The case against
Republicans can argue that a candidate’s appeal at a packed rally or in late polls does not establish that he would best represent Texas, and that voters should weigh the candidates’ policies and governing records. They may also regard Talarico’s attacks as campaign rhetoric and prefer Paxton’s approach, while treating the outcome as a choice for Texas voters rather than a verdict on the party’s statewide history.
Explained simply
Texas has long favoured Republicans in statewide elections, and Democrats have not won one there for 32 years. The Senate is part of the US Congress, where each state elects two senators; control of the chamber affects which laws and appointments can advance.
James Talarico is a Democratic member of the Texas state legislature, while Ken Paxton is the Republican state attorney general and a candidate for the Senate. Paxton has faced corruption-related controversies, including impeachment by fellow Republicans, though he remained in office after the state Senate acquitted him.
A Senate majority depends on election results across the country, not Texas alone. Campaign donations and voter turnout can shape the contest, while a Texas win for Democrats would mark a significant change in the state’s recent voting pattern.
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Originally published by Daily Mail as “James Talarico compares Ken Paxton to an ‘obnoxious’ bar patron in packed final Texas rally as nervous Democrats hold their breath to see if Texas finally turns blue”.