Texas Voters Warned Not to Be Fooled by Democratic Senate Candidate James Talarico

Talarico's Christian faith credentials and policy positions come under scrutiny ahead of key Senate race.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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In a scathing opinion piece, conservative commentator Cal Thomas urges Texas voters to be wary of Democratic U.S. Senate candidate James Talarico, who is presenting himself as a Christian but whose policy positions align more with secular liberal values than traditional Christian teachings.

Why it matters

The race for the Texas Senate seat currently held by Republican John Cornyn is expected to be highly competitive, and Talarico's ability to appeal to conservative evangelical voters could be a key factor. Thomas argues that Talarico is attempting to mislead these voters by invoking his Christian faith while promoting policies that contradict core Christian doctrines.

The details

Thomas points to Talarico's opposition to school choice and support for 'climate change' as examples of how the candidate's policy positions diverge from traditional Christian values. He also raises questions about the theological leanings of the seminary Talarico attended, suggesting it may not adhere to fundamental Christian beliefs. Overall, Thomas paints Talarico as a 'false prophet' trying to deceive religious voters for political gain.

  • Talarico is the Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate seat from Texas currently held by Republican John Cornyn.

The players

James Talarico

The Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate seat from Texas currently held by Republican John Cornyn.

John Cornyn

The current Republican U.S. Senator from Texas whose seat Talarico is seeking to win.

Al Gore

The former Democratic Vice President who unsuccessfully tried to appeal to conservative evangelical voters in 2000.

Cal Thomas

A conservative commentator who authored the opinion piece warning Texas voters not to be fooled by Talarico.

Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary

The seminary that Talarico is attending but has not yet graduated from, which Thomas suggests may not adhere to fundamental Christian beliefs.

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What they’re saying

“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits.”

— Jesus (Bible (Matthew 7:15-20)

“Not everyone who calls me 'Lord, Lord' will enter the kingdom of Heaven.”

— Jesus (Bible (Matthew 7:21)

The takeaway

This opinion piece highlights the challenges Democrats face in appealing to conservative evangelical voters, and the tactics some candidates may use to try to win over these voters despite holding policy positions that contradict core Christian teachings. Texas voters will need to closely examine Talarico's full record and beliefs to determine if he is genuinely aligned with their values.