Texas Democrat James Talarico has expressed his opposition to gender reassignment surgery for minors, despite recently voting against a law in Texas that would ban certain gender transition procedures for children. He argues that limiting treatment options for those with severe gender dysphoria could have detrimental effects on young people.
Currently, Talarico is running for a Texas Senate seat against Attorney General Ken Paxton. During a recent podcast, he stated, “I’m opposed to gender reassignment surgery on minors.”
However, footage from a debate in the Texas House over SB14 shows Talarico voicing his concerns against the bill, which he ultimately voted against. This legislation pertains to regulating gender transition, reassignment, or treatment for children, and it seeks to prohibit public funding for such treatments.
Talarico has voiced his belief that “gender is a spectrum,” pointing out in a Texas House Public Education Committee meeting that modern science recognizes “six” biological sexes.
He also mentioned that prior to the bill’s introduction, there was considerable evidence indicating that untreated severe gender dysphoria could lead to suicide and other mental health issues in children. He highlighted a study published by the New England Journal of Medicine, which showed that treatment could alleviate anxiety and depression in youth with gender dysphoria. “I’m asking them to follow that evidence and follow that science, and that’s what makes me uncomfortable. The authorities don’t want doctors to make these decisions,” Talarico stated.
He further argued that, in line with the Hippocratic Oath, medical professionals have a “moral obligation” to provide care for children experiencing gender dysphoria.
A former teacher and Presbyterian seminarian described the denial of gender reassignment treatment for minors as “child abuse.”
In response, RNC spokesman Zach Kraft criticized Talarico, calling him a “world-class weirdo” and expressing concern over his views on children and gender identity.
Talarico’s opponents, including Attorney General Ken Paxton and Senator Ted Cruz, have asserted that “nobody is in a position to tell us what a real person is.”
The candidate has frequently addressed abortion issues, referring to women as “neighbors with uteruses” and underscoring the necessity for abortion care.
In March, he defended statements suggesting that God transcends gender after being questioned about God’s reproductive organs. Talarico has previously claimed that God is “non-dualistic,” while insisting this view isn’t controversial within Christianity.
On the “Superbloom Podcast,” Talarico expressed his admiration for transgender youth who recently demonstrated at the state capitol, stating, “They shouldn’t have to do that, but it was inspiring to see.”
In 2021, Talarico’s office was noted for being the first in state history to include pronouns on official business cards. He has also supported the participation of men in women’s sports teams based on their gender identity.
