James Talarico’s Moderate Media Makeover
May 31, 2026 | Austin, TX
by Brandon Waltens, Senior Editor for Texas Scorecard
After cruising to the Democrat nomination for U.S. Senate in March, James Talarico now appears focused on a different challenge: convincing Texas General Election voters he is more moderate than the progressive activist Conservatives have spent years watching online.
Republicans are already framing the effort as a “moderate media makeover” ahead of what is expected to become one of the most expensive Senate races in U.S. history.
During an interview with CBS News following Ken Paxton's runoff victory, Talarico was asked about past comments on gender ideology, including a statement that “God is non-binary.”
“God can't be defined by human categories,” Talarico replied, adding that there are “some statements I’ve made that I regret” and accusing Paxton of highlighting his “cringey comments.”
The acknowledgment comes as Talarico has increasingly softened or reframed past positions on issues such as gun control, climate activism, and energy policy.
In recent podcast appearances, Talarico has sought to reassure voters that he does not support taking away firearms and has emphasized support for Texas' oil and gas industry. Republicans, however, have pointed to previous statements and legislative proposals they argue paint a different picture.
Among the examples Republicans have highlighted are Talarico's past support for additional firearm regulations, climate activism efforts that included promoting veganism to combat climate change, and proposals aimed at significantly reducing emissions.
Those issues could prove particularly challenging in Texas, where oil and gas remains a major economic driver. According to industry figures, more than 476,000 Texans work directly in the industry, while more than 2.5 million jobs statewide are supported by the sector.
“It is a real shame for James Talarico that the internet is forever, and he cannot hide just how much of a liberal lunatic he is,” RNC spokesman Zach Kraft told Texas Scorecard. “From going vegan for climate activism to claiming transgender kids are his favorite thing in the world, he has taken up every crazy left-wing crusade for the last decade, and a fake moderate media makeover won't hide the truth.”