James Talarico Reappears on Campaign Trail After Flu-Related Absence

Texas Democratic US Senate nominee James Talarico returned to campaigning Friday after a nearly two-week absence, with his campaign pushing back against speculation regarding his whereabouts. Talarico's primary spokesperson, JT Ennis, posted a video on X of the candidate interacting with supporters at the Austin City Limits Music Festival, stating, "Hate to disappoint the conspiracy theorists, but James is still alive and meeting with voters at ACL today."

Talarico, who is challenging Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, had not appeared publicly in person at a campaign event since a Sept. 26 news conference in Carrollton addressing rising gas prices. His campaign cited a severe case of the flu for the prolonged absence, a reason that drew criticism from Republican opponents, including former President Donald Trump.

Trump commented on Truth Social that Talarico was "MISSING IN ACTION," questioning the duration of his illness and suggesting skepticism about the flu diagnosis. He contrasted Talarico with his Republican rival, Ken Paxton, whom Trump described as a "proven Champion" and "Greatest Attorney General."

Talarico's campaign countered claims of a two-week absence, arguing that his participation in a Sept. 30 Zoom meeting with the US Hispanic Business Council meant his public absence was closer to nine days. The campaign noted that, prior to his illness, Talarico had already completed over 100 public campaign events across the state.

On Sept. 28, Talarico attended a fundraiser in New York City, and the following day, he reported his diagnosis with the flu. His campaign confirmed that he is expected to resume a full in-person schedule throughout the weekend, ahead of a planned CNN town hall on Oct. 14.