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Talarico Leads Senate Poll, Sparks GOP Backlash

3/21/2026

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Center

Talarico Surges Ahead

Texas State Representative James Talarico leads in a U.S. Senate poll, ahead of incumbent John Cornyn by two points and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton by one point.
Talarico gained momentum after winning the Democratic primary against Jasmine Crockett.
Republicans portray him as out of touch with Texas values, including a vegan claim.
The GOP runoff is set for May 26, with the general election in November.

Right

Talarico's Meat Controversy

The resurfaced 2022 video in which James Talarico, a Texas Senate candidate, urged reducing meat consumption to fight climate change, has intensified scrutiny ahead of the May Republican primary runoff.
Critics, including Senator Ted Cruz, labeled him out of touch with Texas culture and barbecue traditions.
The backlash underscores a Texas divide over meat and environment as GOP opponents campaign to question his alignment with Texas values.

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Talarico Surges Ahead

Texas State Representative James Talarico leads in a U.S. Senate poll, ahead of incumbent John Cornyn by two points and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton by one point.
Talarico gained momentum after winning the Democratic primary against Jasmine Crockett.
Republicans portray him as out of touch with Texas values, including a vegan claim.
The GOP runoff is set for May 26, with the general election in November.

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