Talarico Regrets 2021 'God Is Non-Binary' Remark as He Defends 60-Bill Record
Updated
Updated · Fox News · May 27
Talarico Regrets 2021 'God Is Non-Binary' Remark as He Defends 60-Bill Record
4 articles · Updated · Fox News · May 27
James Talarico said in a CBS News interview that he regrets some past statements and had "missed the mark," including his 2021 comment that "God is non-binary."
Pressed on that remark and another claim about six biological sexes, the Texas Democrat said he had been intentionally provocative, now says there are two sexes, and argued a small number of people with chromosomal abnormalities still deserve dignity.
Talarico cast the renewed scrutiny as a campaign tactic by Republican rival Ken Paxton, saying Paxton is clipping "cringey comments" to distract from what he called Paxton's corruption and criminal record.
The candidate countered with his legislative résumé, saying he has served 4 terms in the Texas House and passed more than 60 bipartisan bills on taxes, teacher pay, housing, child care and prescription drugs.
The exchange underscores a central risk in a race where Republicans are portraying Talarico as too progressive for a state that has not elected a Democrat to statewide office since 1988.
With one candidate campaigning on ethics and the other on ideology, what will ultimately decide this pivotal Senate race?
Does record-breaking small-dollar fundraising signal a new path to victory in a state with deep-rooted political traditions?
Texas 2026 Senate Showdown: Ken Paxton vs. James Talarico—Scandal, Trump’s Influence, and the Battle for a Red State
Overview
The 2026 Texas U.S. Senate race features Republican Ken Paxton, who won the primary runoff with strong support from Donald Trump, against Democrat James Talarico, who secured his party’s nomination in March. This matchup has drawn major national attention, as Democrats see it as their best chance in years to win in traditionally Republican Texas. After Paxton’s victory, Talarico welcomed supporters of defeated Senator John Cornyn, aiming to build a broader coalition. The race is seen as highly competitive, with both parties focusing resources on what could be a pivotal contest for the Senate.