JD Vance Mocks Texas Senate Hopeful James Talarico in Campaign Rally

Vice President JD Vance on Tuesday targeted James Talarico, a Democratic candidate for the Texas Senate, with a remark that suggested the Democrat is gay. Vance made the comment during a campaign rally in Tyler, Texas, where he was stumping for Republican nominee and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton.

Responding to an audience member, Vance stated, "I love you too, sir. In a totally platonic way, to be clear. I'm the Vice President, not James Talarico."

Talarico, a member of the Texas House of Representatives, has faced increased scrutiny from Republicans in the traditionally red state. Vance's remarks align with a broader Republican strategy that has sought to portray Talarico, who is trailing Paxton in some polls, as unconventional.

Earlier in the day, Vance elaborated on his criticism of Talarico when questioned by a reporter. He described Talarico as having a "weird focus on transgender kids and drag queens," and recalled a statement Talarico allegedly made about an 11-year-old in drag being a "great sight" or "very beautiful thing."

"It's just he says a lot of weird stuff and I think typically people who say stuff like that tend to have some pretty unusual search histories," Vance told reporters. "Maybe he doesn't," he added with a shrug.

At the rally, Vance repeated this line of attack, saying, "The best part about this guy is he was asked what he loves in life, besides his own family and friends. And he responded without skipping a beat, 'trans children.'"

"Now you got to wonder what the internet search history of a man like that looks like, ladies and gentlemen," Vance told the crowd. "You don't want to find out. Neither do I."

Vance also alluded to a conspiracy theory that circulated about Talarico's temporary absence from the campaign trail due to illness. A false story had claimed Talarico was missing and undergoing treatment at a mental health facility in Ohio. Both Talarico's campaign and the facility denied the allegations, with Talarico stating he had never been to Ohio.

"James Talarico needs a week or two to get his own head examined because he's lost his damn mind," Vance stated at the rally.

Talarico's campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment.