Ken Paxton has launched campaign ads labeling Democratic nominee James Talarico a DEI-obsessed leftist radical and woke. The Texas attorney general and Republican Senate nominee made the attacks in recent statements and advertisements. Paxton defeated incumbent John Cornyn in the May Republican primary runoff and now faces Talarico in the November general election.
Paxton Opinion Declares DEI Unconstitutional
Paxton issued a legal opinion in January that found DEI policies in Texas government unconstitutional. The opinion targets more than 100 state laws and programs. It provides the foundation for his current campaign messaging against Talarico. The official release details the scope of the opinion.
Paxton has used the opinion to frame Talarico as out of step with Texas voters on cultural issues. The attacks emphasize Talarico support for diversity initiatives during his time in the state House. Campaign materials contrast this record with Paxton record of enforcement actions against such programs.
Primary Win Positions Paxton for General Election
Paxton secured the Republican nomination after defeating Cornyn in the late May runoff. The victory cleared the path for a direct contest with Talarico. Reports confirm the primary outcome and general election matchup. Talarico has shifted focus to Paxton past legal issues while Paxton maintains pressure on cultural topics.
The Senate race now centers on competing visions of state government role in education and employment. Paxton ads highlight Talarico positions on school curricula and hiring practices. Democrats counter that Paxton approach ignores practical needs in a diverse state workforce.
