James Talarico, a top Democratic candidate running for U.S. Senate in Texas, is facing significant backlash after comments he made about biological males competing in girls’ sports. The controversy stems from a 2021 interview where Talarico referred to concerns about transgender children in sports as part of a “far-right conspiracy.”
His remarks have sparked criticism from Republicans and activists, adding to a growing list of contentious statements he has made throughout his political career.
Talarico’s Comments on Transgender Athletes
The comments in question were made during a 2021 interview with Fox 7 Austin about the Texas Legislature’s special session. Talarico, a member of the Texas House of Representatives, accused Gov. Greg Abbott of pushing “far-right conspiracy theories” about transgender children in sports, stating that such concerns were unfounded in Texas.
“We know this does not occur in the state of Texas,” Talarico said, referring to the claim that transgender children were causing problems on sports teams.
Talarico’s comments came as part of his criticism of Abbott’s agenda, which included discussions of critical race theory and other controversial issues. “If we were focused on actual issues, that would be one thing, but we’re not,” he added, underscoring his frustration with the direction of the legislative session.
Republican Criticism and Pushback
Talarico’s remarks quickly attracted criticism from Republican figures, including Zach Kraft, a spokesperson for the Republican National Committee. Kraft sharply criticized Talarico, saying, “James Talarico calls parents ‘conspiracy theorists’ for not wanting him to talk to kids about getting a sex change or how ‘little White boys’ are domestic terror threats.”
Kraft also dismissed Talarico’s chances of winning a U.S. Senate seat in a deeply red state like Texas, claiming, “Once again, James Talarico is proving that he is a creep who has zero chance of winning in a red state like Texas.”
Talarico’s Legislative Voting Record
Talarico’s stance on transgender issues in sports is reflected in his voting record. In 2021, Texas passed a bill banning biological males from competing in K-12 girls’ sports. This bill was signed into law by Gov. Abbott, and two years later, Texas passed the “Save Women’s Sports Act,” extending the ban to collegiate women’s sports. Talarico voted against both pieces of legislation.
He also voted against a bill to ban sex-change surgeries for children, stating that “gender-affirming care is not child abuse.”
One of Talarico’s most controversial statements occurred during a debate on the Texas House floor in 2021, where he declared, “God is both masculine and feminine and everything in between. God is non-binary.”
Mocked for “Creepy” Comments About Transgender Children
In 2023, Talarico faced further mockery after a comment he made on a podcast about his admiration for transgender children. During an episode of “A Superbloom Podcast,” Talarico responded to a question about what he loves outside of family and friends by saying, “I love, I’m just saying this because it’s on my mind, the trans children who showed up yesterday at the state Capitol to advocate for their humanity.”
He expressed that these children shouldn’t have to fight for their rights but were “an inspiration to watch.”
This comment was met with widespread criticism. Sen. Tim Sheehy, R-Mont., labeled Talarico as a “creepy goofball,” while women’s sports activist Riley Gaines condemned Talarico’s advocacy, saying, “James Talarico loves ‘trans kids’ so much that he advocates for them to cut off healthy, functioning body parts. Quite the display of love.”
Talarico’s Advocacy for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
Talarico has long been an advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). In 2021, he co-authored legislation to teach DEI in Texas schools, promoting values of equality, inclusion, and justice. However, this initiative has also faced backlash, especially after Talarico made controversial remarks about radicalized White men being a significant domestic terrorism threat.
In a tweet, Talarico stated, “As a white man, I’m susceptible to the same radicalization. Thankfully, I was exposed to diversity at a young age and explicitly taught the values of equality, inclusion, and justice. But not every young white boy is so lucky.”
When a Texas anti-DEI bill took effect, Talarico strongly opposed it, calling it “a dark day in our state’s history.” His comments on race and diversity have further fueled criticism of his progressive positions.
Talarico’s Senate Campaign
As Talarico runs for U.S. Senate in Texas, his controversial positions on issues related to transgender rights, diversity, and race have sparked heated debates. His campaign has faced significant criticism from Republicans and conservatives who view his positions as extreme, while progressives continue to support him.
Talarico’s campaign has not issued any public comments in response to the latest wave of criticism, and it remains to be seen how these controversies will affect his chances in the Senate race.
James Talarico’s Senate campaign has become a battleground for debates on gender issues, transgender rights, and diversity. His statements and votes on controversial topics have drawn sharp reactions, with critics accusing him of promoting extreme progressive views. As the election approaches, Talarico’s positions on these issues will continue to be a key factor in the race for Texas’ Senate seat.
