After a brief hiatus due to illness, James Talarico, the Democratic candidate for the Texas Senate, made a return to the campaign trail on Friday amidst ongoing scrutiny from his Republican opponent, Ken Paxton. Talarico had been sidelined by the flu, prompting Paxton to demand “proof of life” after Talarico’s last public appearance on September 30, which he attended virtually.
“James Talarico is back on the campaign trail talking to voters at Austin City Limits,” stated Talarico’s campaign spokesman, JT Ennis. Social media captured Talarico strolling through the festival, appearing to shake off the lingering effects of his illness.
Talarico’s absence had raised eyebrows, especially as he had to switch to a virtual format for a forum when he revealed his illness. Paxton’s campaign seized on the opportunity to question Talarico’s commitment, even mocking him with social media posts that displayed a milk carton featuring his image and the word “MISSING.” The last time Talarico was seen in person was on September 26, before he traveled to New York for a private fundraiser and subsequently sought urgent care upon returning to Dallas.
In a candid revelation, Talarico shared, “I was starting to feel kind of under the weather a few days ago, and last night it got so bad that I went to urgent care here in Dallas, and I was diagnosed with the flu.” He emphasized his concern for public safety, stating, “I’m running a fever, and I’m my most contagious right now. I’ve been shaking too many hands on the campaign trail.”
His absence during a critical campaign period drew concern among fellow Democrats, who expressed a preference for his presence on the trail. “Believe me, we don’t want this right now,” said a Texas Democrat involved in Talarico’s race. “We’d rather have him on the trail.”
Photo credit: Bill Clark
