James Talarico Faces Backlash Over Comments on Drag Queens
James Talarico, a Democratic candidate vying for a Senate seat in Texas, is under scrutiny after remarks he made in May 2023 resurfaced. In those comments, he referred to Texas drag queens as “the best people” in the country, while criticizing a proposed state bill aimed at restricting “sexually oriented performances” in public settings and in front of minors.
Interestingly, Talarico voted in favor of the bill after the explicit mention of drag performers was removed, claiming the revised version would provide better protection for their performances. He stated, “I think Texas is clearly the best state in the country, and I think it produces some of the best drag queens in the country,” expressing his desire to avoid any legislation that would negatively impact the drag industry.
Talarico, a 37-year-old state lawmaker, has stirred controversy previously with comments regarding Christianity and gender issues. He’s made claims that “God is nonbinary” and has discussed the existence of multiple biological sexes. Moreover, an older video from 2022 has him arguing that reduced meat consumption is vital for combating climate change, while also commending a group focused on dismantling Texas’s oil and gas sector.
The Republican candidate, Ken Paxton, and his campaign criticized Talarico’s remarks about drag queens, labeling them as extreme and out of touch with Texas voters. “This is just another addition to a long list of out-of-place and extreme views held by James Talarico,” Paxton’s spokesperson, Madison Searcy, commented. The Republican National Committee has also voiced strong disapproval, urging Talarico to distance himself from children and his so-called “creepy trans-for-all agenda.”
In June 2023, Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed Senate Bill 12 into law. This legislation has encountered substantial legal challenges from LGBTQ groups, alleging violations of First Amendment rights. Under the law, businesses hosting certain performances risk fines of up to $10,000, and drag performers face potential criminal penalties. Although a federal appeals court has allowed the law to take effect, it remains embroiled in ongoing legal debates.
Talarico’s race against Paxton is tight, with midterm elections looming, resulting in heightened criticism from GOP supporters. Recent polling reveals that both candidates are tied with 47% support from likely Texas voters. Around half of respondents view Paxton, who aligns with President Trump, as too extreme, while a slightly lower percentage shares this sentiment about Talarico. Interestingly, Talarico enjoys a better reputation regarding ethics and character compared to Paxton among those polled.
However, the survey also suggests Talarico may find it challenging to distance himself from the Democratic Party’s image in Texas, with over half of respondents considering the party too far left.
