Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton used President Donald Trump’s San Antonio rally on Wednesday to call attention to Democratic Senate hopeful James Talarico’s recent absence from the campaign trail. Paxton led the crowd in chanting “Where is Talarico?” and reminded attendees that the Democrat had not been seen campaigning in Texas for 11 days.
Trump backs Paxton’s criticism
President Trump echoed Paxton’s concerns, repeatedly asking the audience about Talarico’s whereabouts while campaigning on Paxton’s behalf. The president suggested, without presenting evidence, that the flu might have been caused by Talarico’s dietary choices, mocking the candidate’s preference for plant‑based meals. Trump also attacked Talarico’s positions on immigration, public safety and education, while praising Paxton’s record as Texas attorney general and urging voters to support the Republican Senate bid.
Talarico’s campaign attributes absence to illness
In response, Talarico’s campaign told Fox News Digital that the Democrat has been sick with the flu and is expected to return to the campaign trail this weekend. Spokesperson JT Ennis said, “After holding more than 100 public events and shaking tens of thousands of hands, James came down with the flu but will be back on the trail this weekend.”
Ennis also criticized Paxton’s campaign priorities, stating, “Ken Paxton has been ignoring Texans this entire campaign, and his priorities are clear: he doesn’t answer to the people of this state — he answers to his billionaire megadonors and special interests.” The statement pushes back against Paxton’s remarks as the two candidates compete for the U.S. Senate seat.
Election context and early‑voting push
Trump’s appearance in San Antonio was part of a broader effort to mobilize Republican voters ahead of the November midterm elections. He urged attendees to participate in early voting, which begins Oct. 19 in Texas, or to cast their ballots on Election Day. The exchange over Talarico’s whereabouts comes as the candidates enter the final weeks of the campaign, with the Democrat’s team indicating he will resume public appearances this weekend.
Implications for the Senate race
The Trump‑Paxton tandem underscores the importance of the Texas Senate race to the Republican Party’s effort to maintain control of Congress. By highlighting Talarico’s flu‑related absence, the administration seeks to portray the Democratic challenger as out of touch with Texas voters, while reinforcing Paxton’s standing as a steadfast defender of conservative values.
Both campaigns are expected to intensify their outreach in the coming days as early voting ramps up and the electorate prepares to head to the polls.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
