During a rally in Lubbock, Texas, former President Donald Trump attacked Democratic Texas Senate hopeful James Talarico, claiming Talarico believes Jesus would advocate for sex changes for children. Trump also accused Talarico of wanting to eliminate guns, oil, and meat.
The attacks came during a rally held to support Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in his Senate race against Talarico. Trump played a video from Paxton's campaign that featured Talarico's past statements, including that "God is non-binary" and sentiments supporting transgender individuals. Trump specifically cited Talarico's alleged assertion that Jesus would "tell us blessed are the trans children who were bullied."
Talarico, a seminary student, has publicly stated that if Jesus visited the Texas legislature, he would "tell us blessed are the trans children who were bullied." This stance on transgender rights has become a focal point in the competitive Texas Senate race.
Trump also leveraged Talarico's comments on diet, incorrectly pronouncing "vegan" and suggesting Talarico's dietary preferences were extreme. Paxton has also criticized Talarico, labeling him a "vegan" despite Talarico's acknowledgment of eating meat, citing his comments on reducing meat consumption.
During the rally, Paxton encouraged the crowd to consider Trump as a future resident of Lubbock, Texas, suggesting he might need a second home besides the White House and his Florida residence.
Trump endorsed Paxton, noting that his support was crucial for Paxton, who has faced scrutiny over past corruption scandals, including impeachment proceedings and a public separation from his wife. Trump suggested that if Paxton were to lose, it would be a significant setback, attributing negative press to "all lies."
Senator Ted Cruz was also present at the rally in Lubbock. Trump has focused on rallying conservative voters in redder areas of the state in his campaign efforts.