Full Breakdown
James Talarico’s Texas Senate Campaign Shifts Focus to Border Security and Data Centers
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Campaign Ads Target Biden and Paxton
In early October 2024, Democratic Senate nominee James Talarico released two television ads. The first shows him before a Texas flag, accusing former President Joe Biden of “failing us on the border” and highlighting his work with Republicans on a historic property-tax cut. Both spots aired shortly after Talarico returned from a flu-related absence that began on September 30.
Background & Context
Talarico, a former Texas legislator and teacher, previously advocated eliminating the state’s $800 million biennial border-security budget and redirecting those funds to public education. He also called for dismantling Immigration and Customs Enforcement, labeling it “secret police.” Republican strategist Mike Madrid says Talarico’s centrist approach was intentional to attract moderate voters in a deeply red state.
Data & Statistics
- Polling: RealClearPolitics averages from Sept 18–Oct 8 show Talarico at 48.1 % versus Paxton’s 45.3 %. A Trafalgar Group poll (Oct 6-8) placed him ahead 47 % to 44 %.
- Fundraising: Talarico raised $27 million in Q1 and $30 million in Q2, outpacing Paxton’s $18 million from July-Sept.
- Outside Spending: Super PACs backing Paxton have poured more than $150 million into the race, compared with roughly $4 million for Talarico. Total ad spending exceeds $440 million, the highest of any Senate contest this cycle.
- Data-Center Economics: Texas provides an estimated $3.2 billion in state tax breaks to data-center companies. Paxton’s campaign received at least $448,000 through June from executives and committees linked to the industry.
- Border Budget: Texas allocates $800 million per biennium to border security, split as $400 million per year.
Official Statements & Responses
Talarico’s ad script declares, “I called out Joe Biden for failing us on the border.” He later told Newsweek that campaign spokesperson JT Ennis clarified his September absence was due to flu complications related to Type 1 diabetes, not the “behavioral health center” rumors circulating online. Mike Madrid reiterated that Talarico’s centrist style is designed to win over Republican voters in Texas.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics note Talarico’s earlier opposition to border spending and ICE, questioning the consistency of his current security stance.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I called out Joe Biden for failing us on the border,” — S. Senate James Talarico
- “We're also sending about $800 million per biennium to the border with Mexico for ‘increased border security,’” — S. Senate James Talarico
- “His style and his appeal has been to be more centrist from the beginning,” — Mike Madrid, Republican strategist
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Fox News reports that Talarico’s campaign could not locate a public criticism of Biden made while he was president, while Newsweek cites a 2022 speech in which Talarico accused Biden of border failures. The timing of his first public criticism therefore remains unclear.
What’s Next
Talarico is scheduled to headline a CNN town hall on October 14, marking his first major televised appearance since his illness. Early voting runs October 19-30, and Election Day is set for November 3. Paxton has yet to accept any of the four debate invitations extended to Talarico.
