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Talarico Challenges Paxton to Bret Baier Debate in Austin

By Drooid · Sep 26, 2026, 12:09 AM UTC · How we work

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Paxton weaponizes drag

Democratic nominee James Talarico challenged General Ken Paxton to a debate, naming Bret Baier as moderator, at Texas Tribune Festival in Austin on September 25, 2026.
Paxton weaponized drag queen Alyssa Edwards in anti-LGBTQ attacks, drawing criticism for targeting vulnerable communities.
His video called Edwards a “sick and twisted drag queen” with a “VIEWER WARNING.”
Judge blocked Texas’s 2023 drag ban, ruling it unconstitutional and saying audiences should avoid it.

Right

Divorce Unity Appeal

Senate nominee James Talarico challenged Attorney General Ken Paxton to a Fox News debate, moderated by Bret Baier, at Festival in Austin on September 25, 2026.
Despite filing for divorce, Angela Paxton urged GOP voters to back the Republican ticket, emphasizing party unity over her personal dispute with Ken Paxton.
Ken Paxton secured a $10 million purchase from MAGA Inc. in September 2026.
Republican groups spent $103 million on Texas ads, outpacing Democrats’ $22 million.

History

Historical Context

After Texas passed a 2015 transgender bathroom bill, lawsuits showed the political cost of restrictive measures. The episode spurred later bills such as the 2025 Texas Women’s Privacy Act and HB 229, reinforcing a binary definition of sex. In 2026, candidates James Talarico and Attorney General Ken Paxton revive the partisan clash, while 22 states now enforce bathroom restrictions.

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Paxton weaponizes drag

Democratic nominee James Talarico challenged General Ken Paxton to a debate, naming Bret Baier as moderator, at Texas Tribune Festival in Austin on September 25, 2026.
Paxton weaponized drag queen Alyssa Edwards in anti-LGBTQ attacks, drawing criticism for targeting vulnerable communities.
His video called Edwards a “sick and twisted drag queen” with a “VIEWER WARNING.”
Judge blocked Texas’s 2023 drag ban, ruling it unconstitutional and saying audiences should avoid it.

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