Texas Dem Senate Nominee Talarico Draws Praise, Criticism from Conservative Columnist

David French lauds Talarico's 'Christian' persona but critics say he denies core Christian doctrines

Mar. 11, 2026 at 9:38am

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Conservative columnist David French has praised Texas Democratic Senate nominee James Talarico, a seminary graduate, as a 'Christian X-ray' who represents 'decency' in opposition to 'MAGA Christianity.' However, critics argue that Talarico's progressive political views, including support for abortion and gender ideology, contradict essential Christian doctrines, making him a 'heretic' despite his warm persona.

Why it matters

The debate over Talarico highlights ongoing tensions within evangelical Christianity between those who emphasize character over doctrinal orthodoxy, and those who see denying core theological tenets as a betrayal of the faith. It also reflects the broader struggle over the role of religion in American politics.

The details

In a recent New York Times column, French lauded Talarico as a 'smiling seminarian' who 'talks about love' in contrast to the 'cruelty' of 'MAGA Christianity.' However, critics like Andrew T. Walker argue that Talarico's support for progressive policies like abortion and gender ideology make him a 'heretic' who 'denies the moral order that Christ himself affirmed.' They contend that French is making the same error he has criticized in 'MAGA Christians' by prioritizing personal charm over sound doctrine.

  • Talarico recently won the Democratic nomination for the Texas Senate seat.
  • French's column praising Talarico was published on Sunday, March 11, 2026.

The players

James Talarico

The Texas Democratic Senate nominee who is a graduate of Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary.

David French

A conservative columnist for The New York Times who has praised Talarico's 'Christian' persona.

Andrew T. Walker

An associate professor of Christian ethics who has criticized French's treatment of Talarico as 'theological malpractice.'

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What they’re saying

“God is non-binary.”

— James Talarico (Unspecified)

“A kind heretic is still a heretic. A man who speaks about Jesus with warmth while denying the moral order that Christ himself affirmed is not a Christian statesman. He is a wolf in a very well-pressed suit.”

— Andrew T. Walker, Associate Professor of Christian Ethics (The Daily Wire)

“When you begin describing a progressive politician who affirms abortion as a 'Christian X-ray' that illuminates the failures of orthodox Christians, you have not elevated your commentary. You have descended into trollish editorializing with a more elite platform.”

— Andrew T. Walker, Associate Professor of Christian Ethics (The Daily Wire)

What’s next

The outcome of the Texas Senate race between Talarico and the Republican nominee will be closely watched, as it could have implications for the role of religion in American politics.

The takeaway

This debate highlights the ongoing tensions within evangelical Christianity over the balance between character and doctrinal orthodoxy, and the challenges of navigating the intersection of faith and politics in a polarized environment.