Talarico pushes cost of living plan

James Talarico is seeking a seat in the U.S. Senate from Texas. He held his final campaign event on Sunday evening in the city where he grew up.

The event took place at The Espee in St. Paul’s Square in San Antonio. Talarico spent more than a year campaigning for the position. He previously taught at Rhodes Middle School on the West Side of the city. He credits that experience with shaping his approach to public service.

“This is where I learned how to be a leader. This is where I learned the meaning of service,” Talarico said. “San Antonio taught me so much about myself and about public service.”

His platform focuses on reducing the cost of living for residents. He proposes suspending federal gasoline and diesel taxes. He also wants to reverse tariffs that he argues increase consumer prices. “People here in San Antonio are struggling with the high cost of living,” he said. Education is another key area of focus. He aims to expand access to quality early childhood programs.

Talarico advocates for a more competitive political environment in Texas. He rejects the traditional red and blue labels for the state. “My party talks about turning Texas blue. Republicans talk about keeping Texas red. I think the best color for Texas is purple,” he said. He cited bipartisan legislation passed during his time in the Texas House as evidence of his collaborative style.

“I’m not interested in just serving Democrats. I’m interested in serving Democrats, independents, and Republicans,” Talarico said. He concluded his remarks by referencing a local sports motto. “We’re running with clear eyes and full hearts,” he said. Voters in Texas will cast ballots on Tuesday, November 3.