Full Breakdown
Texas Senate Race Heats Up as Democratic Candidate James Talarico Takes Flu-Related Hiatus
By Drooid · · How we work
Talarico’s Illness and Campaign Pause
Democratic state Rep. James Talarico disclosed on September 30 that he had been diagnosed with the flu after a visit to urgent care in Dallas. He said he was “running a fever” and “most contagious,” and chose to suspend in-person campaigning to avoid exposing voters. By the campaign’s count, Talarico has not held a rally in Texas since September 26 and has remained off the trail for 12 days. His team says he will resume in-person events “this weekend” and is slated for a CNN-hosted town hall on October 14.
Political Context and Campaign Stakes
The race pits Talarico against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, the Republican nominee who defeated Sen. John Cornyn in the May 26 runoff. Early voting begins on October 19 and the general election is on November 3.
Polling Landscape
- YouGov poll (Sept 28-Oct 5) showed Talarico leading 50 % to 44 %.
- NYT/Siena poll (Oct 3) gave Talarico 51 % and Paxton 45 % (±4.5 pp).
- University of Massachusetts Lowell/YouGov (Sept 18-28) found a 45-45 tie.
- Fox News poll (Sept 24-28) gave Talarico a 51-49 edge.
- Paxton’s internal Pulse Decision Science survey reported Paxton ahead 48 % to 45 %.
These results illustrate a tightly contested environment, with most polls showing a narrow Democratic advantage.
Official Statements & Responses
- Ennis accused Paxton of “ignoring Texans this entire campaign” and serving “billionaire megadonors and special interests.”
- Paxton campaign spokeswoman Madison Cercy demanded “proof of life,” noting the 26-day window before Election Day and early voting.
Criticism & Opposition
Republican leaders have turned the flu hiatus into a campaign theme. At a San Antonio rally, Paxton led chants of “Where is James Talarico?” Senator Ted Cruz amplified the attack with a meme. President Donald Trump mocked the candidate, suggesting the flu was linked to Talarico’s alleged meat-eating and urging an immediate debate.
Verbatim Quotes
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Polling shows divergent margins: while several surveys place Talarico ahead by 5–6 points, others show a tie or a slight Republican edge, and Paxton’s internal data suggests a lead. The campaign has not provided a specific date beyond “this weekend” for Talarico’s return, leaving uncertainty about his on-the-ground presence before early voting begins.
What’s Next
- October 14: Talarico is scheduled for a CNN town hall in Fort Worth; Paxton has been invited but has not confirmed.
- October 19: Early voting opens statewide.
- November 3: General election decides the U.S. Senate seat.
Both campaigns will intensify advertising and voter outreach as the calendar tightens, with the flu-related hiatus remaining a focal point of Republican criticism and Democratic defense.