Actor Jordan Walker Ross Endorses James Talarico in Texas Senate Race

Jordan Walker Ross, known for his role as Little James in the television series “The Chosen,” has endorsed Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico. Ross played a key role in launching the campaign’s “Faithful Texans for Talarico” coalition, aiming to attract religious voters ahead of the upcoming election.

In a campaign video, Ross voiced criticism regarding how politicians often fail to reflect Christian values in legislation and daily actions. He praised Talarico for demonstrating his commitment to these values, saying, “He loves his neighbor; he takes care of the needy, the sick, the immigrant.”

A spokesperson for Republican Senate candidate Ken Paxton criticized Talarico, accusing him of using religious beliefs to justify progressive stances. The criticism also targeted Ross and further highlighted debates about taxpayer-funded subsidies for Hollywood productions. Texas Republican state Rep. Brian Harrison condemned Ross’ endorsement, highlighting subsidies to actors supporting Democratic candidates. He argued that these funds assist in electing Democrats, pointing specifically to Texas Senate Bill 22, which expanded Texas’ film incentive program.

Texas Film Commission records indicate substantial payments to “The Chosen Texas LLC” before the legislation’s effective date, including approximately $862,527 for the second season and $1.995 million for the fourth season.

Harrison described the film incentives as an unwarranted redistribution of tax dollars to affluent Hollywood leftists, emphasizing that these subsidies indirectly support actor salaries. He vowed to propose legislation to repeal these subsidies next session. In response, Ross defended the endorsement and the incentives, arguing that the burgeoning film industry in Texas creates jobs across the political spectrum. He underscored the constitutional right to political expression, encouraging actors and filmmakers from both sides of the aisle to voice their opinions.

He stated, “I believe it’s time for a change and that James Talarico offers a clear vision for how to create those changes.” Conversely, Lisa Cusack, president of “Don’t L.A. My Burbank PAC,” expressed skepticism over Ross’ progressive stance aligning with Christian viewers and questioned its potential influence on the electorate.

Brittany Hughes from Media Research Center emphasized that playing an apostle on television does not equate to theological authority. She argued that Talarico’s support for specific social issues contrasts with essential Christian teachings.

Ross welcomed discussions with viewers holding opposing views, sharing that these interactions foster learning and mutual understanding.

Meanwhile, Talarico, a Presbyterian seminarian, competes against Republican Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who formed his “Pastors for Paxton” coalition consisting of 27 faith leaders.

Fox News Digital reached out to Talarico and the Texas Film Commission for comments but did not receive immediate responses.

CJ Womack, an associate editor at Fox News Digital, highlights journalism’s role in shaping politics and culture. Having graduated from Long Beach State University, Womack brings experience in news analysis and reporting. News tips can be sent to [email protected], and CJ can be followed on Twitter.