James Talarico, the Democratic nominee for the Senate in Texas, once pressed Democrats to consider cuts to healthcare benefits a nonstarter — regardless of the consequences for the state’s finances.The remark came during a podcast interview in which Talarico discussed how Texas might balance its budget amid COVID-related shortfalls.He feared Republicans would look for savings in healthcare services."I don't care where you get the revenue.
I don't care what taxes you have to raise," Talarico said in a 2020 appearance with Texas Rising, a progressive YouTube channel focused on political engagement among younger voters.The resurfaced moment adds to the pile of past statements dealing with gender, immigration and fiscal management, complicating the political calculus for Talarico as he aims to convince voters in Texas that he could represent a Republican-leaning constituency, even as a Democrat.TALARICO SAYS HE 'MISSED THE MARK' AS HE BACKTRACKS ON CONTROVERSIAL WOKE STATEMENTSDemocrat candidate for Senate James Talarico speaks during a rally in San Antonio, Texas, on May 29, 2026.(Ronaldo Schemidt/AFP via Getty Images)At the time, Texas was facing a bleak financial outlook.The pandemic had crippled key sections of the state’s regular revenue streams.
As oil demand crashed nationally, tax revenue that would normally come from hotels, bars and restaurants also faced steep reductions.Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar projected a $4.6 billion shortfall."The economic contraction associated with COVID-19 has resulted in revenue collection this fiscal year that is much lower than our earlier projections," Hegar said in a statement."This estimate also assumes that restrictions on businesses and individuals will be lifted before the end of this calendar year and that economic activity will strengthen."As a part of the COVID response, Texas ordered most agencies to look for ways to cut their spending by 5% in the 2020 – 2021 budget.In a letter, Governor Greg Abbott largel...