Trump mocks Talarico’s health and diet at San Antonio rally as polls show tight Texas race

Key points

• Trump claimed Talarico is 'sick' and 'throwing up' because he is forced to eat meat for political reasons, despite Talarico denying he is vegan.
• Talarico disclosed a flu diagnosis on Sept. 30, explaining his absence from in-person campaign events in Texas.
• The Paxton campaign launched a 'Where's Jimmy?' campaign, questioning Talarico's timing of illness after a Sept. 28 fundraising event in New York.
• Multiple polls from September and October show Talarico leading Paxton by 1 to 6 percentage points.
• Trump warned that Texas would face a 'disaster' if Talarico wins, calling him a 'freak show' and mocking his name.

Background

This is the third time Trump has visited Texas in less than a month to support Paxton. Earlier in September, he warned on a podcast that a Talarico victory could be a disaster for the state. The race is critical for Republicans maintaining their Senate majority, with national polls showing Democrats gaining ground in the midterms.

How outlets are covering it

USA Today and Time Magazine both highlight Trump’s focus on Talarico’s alleged veganism and health, noting the candidate’s public denial. Time emphasizes Trump’s emotional appeals to Texas machismo and his concern over losing the state. The Independent notes the rally was interrupted by protesters, though no arrests were made. The Paxton campaign, as reported by USA Today, questions the timing of Talarico’s illness, contrasting it with his recent out-of-state fundraising.

Why it matters

The Texas Senate race is a pivotal battleground for the 2026 midterms. A Democratic win would end a decades-long Republican streak in the state and could impact the balance of power in the U.S. Senate. Trump’s aggressive campaigning underscores the high stakes for the GOP.

What to watch

Talarico’s campaign says he will return to campaigning soon. The next major event is the Nov. 3 midterm election. Republicans are focusing on turnout to counter national polling trends that favor Democrats.