Escalation: Talarico and Paxton Launch Negative Attack Ads
Days after Ken Paxton won the GOP runoff, both campaigns went negative with new digital ads. James Talarico’s spot strings together news clips about Paxton’s 2023 impeachment by the Republican-led Texas House; Paxton was later acquitted. At a Houston kickoff rally, Talarico called Paxton “the most corrupt politician in America” and unveiled a “The People vs. Ken Paxton” theme.
Paxton’s ad stitches past videos of Talarico saying “there are six” biological sexes and touting a “non-meat” campaign, and Paxton mocked him in his victory speech with a string of nicknames. In an interview, Talarico said he “missed the mark” on some old statements and argued Paxton is clipping “cringey” comments to distract, while saying he is committed to protecting Texas cattle ranchers.
Talarico’s team said it raised $3 million in the 24 hours after Paxton’s win and announced a five-city tour titled “The People vs. Paxton.” Paxton leaned into the contrast online, tying Talarico to “big vegan allies” while seeking donations.
Synthesized from 6 sources
AI-synthesized from multiple reported sources
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