State Rep. James Talarico (D-Austin), the Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate, described himself as “a Christian who hates Christianity” in a resurfaced 2021 podcast interview with a self-described “TransQueer” activist theologian.
The audio, unearthed and shared recently by the Republican National Committee’s research arm, has intensified scrutiny over Talarico’s theological views as he faces Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in the November 2026 general election.
🚨 UNEARTHED
In an interview with a self-described “TransQueer” activist theologian, Texas Democrat James Talarico says he "hates" Christianity:
"I always think of myself as a Christian who hates Christianity.” pic.twitter.com/wFEONx03CW
— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) June 23, 2026
Talarico, a Presbyterian seminarian, made the comment while discussing institutional religion. He has previously described God as “non-binary” during a 2021 Texas House floor debate, as previously covered by The Dallas Express.
Talarico’s Record and Campaign
Talarico, 37, an eighth-generation Texan and former middle school teacher, won the Democratic primary in March 2026. He presents himself as a progressive Christian who rejects “Christian nationalism” and emphasizes economic justice, separation of church and state, and opposition to policies he says weaponize faith.
Paxton’s Record and Campaign
Paxton, 63, a longtime Texas Republican and former state legislator, has served as Texas Attorney General since 2015. He won the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate in a May 26, 2026, runoff victory over incumbent Sen. John Cornyn. Paxton focuses on upholding the Constitution, prioritizing border security, election integrity, limited government, and defending traditional Texas values against federal overreach and progressive policies.
Competitive Race
Recent polls show a tight contest. A June 2026 University of Texas/Texas Politics Project poll found Paxton at 43% and Talarico at 42%. Other surveys from May showed Talarico with a narrow lead or a tie. Paxton holds an edge in betting markets and among Republican voters.
Paxton has directly attacked Talarico on the campaign trail. In a May 2026 speech, Paxton referred to Talarico as “the most extreme radical the Democrats have ever nominated,” and used nicknames including “Low-T Talarico” and “James Tala-freak-o” while criticizing his past comments on faith and identity.
“But no matter what you call him, let me tell you this: James Talarico is a threat to everything we hold dear in this state and in this country,” Paxton added.
The Dallas Express has previously reported on Talarico’s record, including past social media posts as a teacher and positions on criminal justice.
Reactions from Officials and Leaders
Reactions from elected officials and Christian leaders have focused on the broader theological divergence. Some have gone further, with pastors tied to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s church calling Talarico “a wolf,” “a demon,” and “a snake” on a March 2026 podcast.
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz and other Republicans have amplified concerns that Talarico is promoting a version of Christianity that departs significantly from historic Christian doctrine, describing Talarico’s interpretation of Scripture as blasphemy and warning people not to be deceived.
Texas voters will decide the contest on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Voting remains both a fundamental privilege and a civic responsibility for all eligible Texans, regardless of party affiliation.
