Religion has become a prominent theme in Texas's upcoming Senate election, due in part to the candidacy of James Talarico, the Democratic nominee.
An ordained Presbyterian minister and seminarian, Talarico will face Attorney General Ken Paxton, a Southern Baptist, in November.
Talarico has frequently spoken about how his progressive Christian faith shapes his political views, arguing that poverty relief and access to healthcare are biblical imperatives. He has also challenged the religious right and warned that Christian nationalism poses a threat to both democracy and the church.
Paxton and his supporters have criticised Talarico's beliefs and his church, St Andrew's Presbyterian Church in Austin. As Premier Christian News previously reported, St Andrew's has become known for its advocacy on human rights, social justice and LGBTQ+ inclusion under Pastor Jim Rigby.
Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick has also criticised Talarico, saying he is "going to hell" for his "campaigns against God".
Patrick made the remarks during the Texas Republican Convention in Houston on 12 June.
“It’s James Talarico who decided to bring the Bible into this election. And let me tell you, that’s not a Bible I’ve ever read. I’ve never seen so much blasphemy from anyone running for office,” said Patrick.
He continued: “Let me tell you what, I’m going to pray for that guy, because when he loses the Senate race, if he campaigns against God as he’s been doing, he’s going to hell, for sure. That’s what we’re up against. That’s the darkness. That’s the light. That’s why we must be one.”
Talarico responded by accusing Patrick of having “sold out the poor, the sick, and the vulnerable to enrich his donors” for decades.
He added: “Love feels like blasphemy when you worship power.”
According to Baptist News Global, Talarico is an active member of St Andrew's Presbyterian Church in Austin. Paxton remains a member of Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, although reports suggest he has not attended there regularly in recent years. Patrick is a member of Second Baptist Church in Houston, another Southern Baptist congregation.
A Texas Pulse poll released on Tuesday found the candidates tied in the Lone Star State's Senate race. The survey of 807 respondents found that 46 per cent would vote for Talarico and 46 per cent for Paxton if the election were held now.