James Talarico Resumes Campaigning After Flu Absence

Democratic Texas Senate candidate James Talarico made his return to the campaign trail on Friday after facing criticism for a recent absence due to the flu. Talarico’s campaign spokesman, JT Ennis, confirmed that he was engaging with voters at the Austin City Limits festival.

Talarico had announced his health issue on September 30, having to participate virtually in a forum because of his illness. His absence led to relentless jabs from his opponent, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who requested “proof of life” and even mocked Talarico with a social media post showing a milk carton with Talarico’s face labeled “MISSING.” Talarico had last campaigned in-person on September 26 before attending a New York private fundraiser on September 29, and he conveyed his flu diagnosis during a virtual message the following day, expressing concern for everyone’s safety.