Why I'm Endorsing Texas Rep. James Talarico for U.S. Senate

Rep. Jasmine Crockett is a very good candidate. Talarico is a great one

Photo: Antonio Esparza

Like so many of y’all, I’ve been closely following the race between Jasmine Crockett and James Talarico in their ultra competitive battle to secure the Democratic Senate nomination in Texas.

While I find Rep. Crockett to be both talented and engaging, as well as a passionate advocate for a number of things that I hold dear, I voted for Rep. Talarico.

There’s an unpretentious genuineness in how he carries himself, and his deeply ingrained empathy—as reflected in his policy positions—is particularly attractive in these divided and ugly times we live in.

My choice was largely informed by the way Talarico (and his message) connected with me and my values. There’s an unpretentious genuineness in how he carries himself, and his deeply ingrained empathy—as reflected in his policy positions—is particularly attractive in these divided and ugly times we live in. Additionally, Talarico’s clear-eyed view of who some of the worst bad guys are (Billionaires and their elected servants) transcends party lines and is very good evidence that he “gets it.”

Photo: James Talarico

Finally, Talarico’s ability to stand firm on his faith while pointing out what Jesus actually taught vs how MAGA has bastardized that message is also incredibly relatable, even to someone who’s not particularly religious.

It’s also worth noting that I’m surprised by Crockett’s attack ads late in this cycle that awkwardly attempt to cast Talarico as a member of the big money establishment, (literally) alongside Donald Trump and GregAbbott. This is a head-scratcher of a move against an opponent who has put his rejection of big money donors and corporate PAC money front and center in his campaign and has the receipts (or lack thereof) to prove it.

One more thing: should Crockett win the nomination, I’ll fully support her and urge all y’all to do the same. Texas Democrats being united behind their candidate for Senate will be incredibly important this fall, despite a messier than expected primary battle.