James Talarico, running as the Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate in Texas, previously made statements regarding the denial of children’s gender identity by parents, labeling such actions as potentially ‘abusive.’ He expressed these views during a 2019 committee hearing in the Texas Legislature. Talarico emphasized that harm can result from refusing to recognize a child’s gender identity, whether termed abuse or not.
As the election approaches, his past remarks are under scrutiny as he seeks to present himself as a moderate on topics like gender issues, policing, and border security. Texas, known for its Republican preference, becomes a challenging battleground for Talarico.
Talarico spoke against HB 1910, legislation designed to prevent parents who did not affirm their child’s gender identity from being accused of child abuse in custody decisions. The bill stated that courts should not consider a parent’s acknowledgment, or lack thereof, of a child’s gender identity as evidence when determining custody arrangements.
Opposing this bill, Talarico argued that a complete dismissal of potential abuse from non-acknowledgment could harm vulnerable children in Texas. His concern revolved around the danger of not considering such denial as abusive behavior.
“Some of us I think really do consider this abusive behavior… an unwillingness to identify, acknowledge a child’s gender identity. We consider that abusive to the child, abusive and destructive,” Talarico remarked.
He faced criticism from Republican spokesperson Zach Kraft, who accused him of having inappropriate interests regarding children’s gender identities. Although the original version of the bill was dismissed, a revised and stronger version was passed by the Texas House in 2025 and became law.
Talarico voted against this version and supported amendments highlighting the rejection of a child’s gender identity as abusive. These amendments suggested such actions should be considered abuse under Texas law.
When questioned about his stance, the Talarico campaign emphasized his support for parental rights and decision-making concerning their children. JT Ennis, a spokesperson for Talarico, reiterated his belief in parental authority but criticized Ken Paxton, the Republican opponent, for allegedly failing to protect families from pedophiles.
Leo Briceno, a congressional politics reporter for Fox News Digital, presents this detailed examination.
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