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Talarico Defends School Safety Plan Amid Defunding Claims

4/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

James Talarico, a Texas Democratic Senate candidate, refutes claims he supports defunding the police.
Republicans scrutinize James Talarico's past comments on police presence in schools and mental health resources.
Talarico proposed a bill requiring more mental health professionals than police officers in schools to address school-to-prison pipeline, but it stalled in committee.
His campaign argues the approach would enhance school safety, while opponents label him a "defund the police" radical.

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Story summary

James Talarico, a Texas Democratic Senate candidate, refutes claims he supports defunding the police.
Republicans scrutinize James Talarico's past comments on police presence in schools and mental health resources.
Talarico proposed a bill requiring more mental health professionals than police officers in schools to address school-to-prison pipeline, but it stalled in committee.
His campaign argues the approach would enhance school safety, while opponents label him a "defund the police" radical.