A rumor about Texas Democratic Senate nominee James Talarico spending time at an Ohio behavioral health center has been proven false. Despite debunking, questions remain about the delay in providing evidence to refute the claims.
The New York Times revealed that it obtained time-stamped security camera images from Talarico’s campaign. These images showed Talarico at his home in Austin between October 1 and October 8. His absence from the campaign trail during those nine days had led to speculation about his whereabouts.
The images, shared with the Times under conditions of non-publication for security reasons, directly contradict the allegations of Talarico traveling over 1,000 miles for treatment. They support his assertion that he was home, recovering from the flu.
Some observers have criticized Talarico’s campaign for not releasing this evidence sooner. GOP strategist Mark Bednar noted the importance of clear communication during an election year, stating that if illness was the cause, proving it to voters should have been straightforward.
Washington Free Beacon’s Chuck Ross commented on this issue, suggesting that releasing the footage earlier could have prevented the rumors from spreading.
Throughout the absence period, Talarico’s campaign maintained that he was ill. He appeared virtually at an event on September 30, visibly unwell, confirming his illness to attendees. As his absence continued, speculation increased, further fueled by the campaign reposting an old video without immediate clarification.
Matt Gorman of Targeted Victory criticized the decision to go dark during the campaign, highlighting the need to connect with voters, especially as Election Day nears. He emphasized utilizing technology for communication rather than extended silence.
On Tuesday, Fox News Digital reached out to Talarico’s campaign following the New York Times report. The campaign chose not to change its earlier response, reiterating the rumor as a false conspiracy theory. Campaign spokesperson JT Ennis confirmed Talarico’s readiness to return to campaigning.
Ennis also shifted focus to Talarico’s opponent, Republican Ken Paxton, criticizing him for not participating in a debate, a challenge issued 87 days prior. This comment underlines ongoing tensions in the campaign between Talarico and Paxton.
Alec Schemmel, a Politics Reporter for Fox News Digital, contributed to this coverage. Originally from Charlotte, North Carolina, he now operates in the Washington D.C.-Baltimore Metro Area.
Leave a Reply