Texas Democratic Senator-elect James Talarico stated he is open to working with President Donald Trump on several policy areas following his election victory. Talarico, who unseated Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, identified border security, lowering energy costs, and reducing housing regulations as potential grounds for bipartisan cooperation.
In an interview with Fox News, Talarico expressed optimism about finding common ground with the president, noting Trump's background in real estate as relevant to addressing housing issues. "I also want to work with the president on housing. He's a builder, and we need to cut the red tape, the regulation that sometimes my party has been guilty of, so that we can build millions of new homes in this country," Talarico said.
Talarico also indicated support for suspending federal gas and diesel taxes to reduce fuel expenses for Texans. "He and I both support suspending the federal gas tax and the federal diesel tax," Talarico stated, estimating the move could lower fuel prices by 18 cents per gallon.
Further areas of potential collaboration include immigration reform and criminal justice reform. Talarico specifically mentioned agreeing with Trump on the need to legalize marijuana and reform the criminal justice system.
Despite Trump having endorsed Paxton, Talarico emphasized his focus on delivering results for his constituents rather than engaging in political retribution. "The people of Texas did not elect me last night for retribution," Talarico said. "They elected me to deliver for them to make their lives easier and better and less stressful."
Talarico's victory marks a significant shift in Texas politics, being the first time Democrats have secured a U.S. Senate seat in the state since 1988. Trump has also signaled a willingness to work with Democrats on certain issues, suggesting he would veto "insane" legislation and then work across the aisle to achieve legislative goals.