James Talarico Puts His Faith in Texas Voters

The New Yorker

by Tad Friend

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

James Talarico, a 36-year-old state representative from Austin and Democratic Senate candidate, is making waves in Texas politics with his unorthodox approach: using theology to connect with voters. A self-proclaimed progressive Democrat, Talarico frames politics as a sacrament and draws inspiration from the New Testament, resonating with many through his Instagram following of over two million followers. His message emphasizes unity over division, appealing to higher values like love and inclusion, which sets him apart in a state dominated by MAGA ideology. Talarico’s strategy centers on winning over Christian voters, particularly evangelicals, who make up a significant portion of the Texas electorate. Despite facing an uphill battle against Ken Paxton, a controversial Trump-aligned figure running for re-election as attorney general, Talarico has gained momentum in recent polls. His ability to appear on Fox News and challengeGOP talking points head-on has caught attention, showing his potential to shift the political landscape. The cultural significance of Talarico’s campaign lies in its reflection of broader shifts within the Democratic Party. By focusing on values like economic justice and multiracial democracy, he challenges traditionalLeft vs. Right narratives and highlights the importance of moral leadership in politics. His approach not only aims to win but also redefines what it means to be a Democrat in a deeply conservative state.

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Originally published on The New Yorker on 2/23/2026