Ken Paxton has leveled serious allegations against James Talarico amid their contest in the Texas Senate Race. Paxton charged Talarico with abusing his position to benefit personally and financially, accusing him of using state resources to favor his own interests and a consulting firm paying him substantial sums.
Background of the Controversy
A Fox News report brought to light Talarico’s consulting work for MAYA Consulting, which later became VIDA Collaborative, during his time on the Texas House Public Education Committee. This committee oversees the Texas Education Agency (TEA), which awarded MAYA millions in contracts during Talarico’s tenure.
Paxton’s campaign claims these deals aligned with priorities Talarico promoted in the Texas House, suggesting misuse of public office. The Republican National Committee echoed these concerns, branding it a classic pay-to-play scheme.
In response, Talarico’s campaign dismissed these allegations as falsehoods. They maintained that all his transactions were in compliance with state legislature rules and denied any connections to the awarded contracts.
Talarico’s financial disclosure showed he earned over $83,000 for his work with MAYA in 2025. Texas records revealed substantial contracts given to MAYA around this time, amounting to $3.5 million in 2021 and $1.6 million in 2022.
VIDA’s CEO clarified Talarico’s duties, stating he had no involvement with state contracts and was barred from representing MAYA before Texas Legislature or education agencies.
Countering Corruption Accusations on Paxton
Talarico’s campaign has argued Paxton aims to distract from his own corruption probes. Paxton has faced multiple accusations, including impeachment by his party for bribery and indictment for securities fraud. The latter culminated in restitution payments of $300,000.
In 2020, concerns from Paxton’s staff led to a federal investigation. Despite the Texas House’s impeachment approval in 2023, the Senate acquitted him, fueling Talarico’s branding of Paxton as Texas’s most corrupt politician.
Current Standing in the Race
With six weeks before the midterms, Talarico holds the lead in various polls. He maintains a broad margin, though the race has shown fluctuating dynamics since August.
The New York Times indicates Paxton has not led since an early August poll, with subsequent surveys showing Talarico ahead in key districts previously won by President Trump.
When queried about these developments, Paxton voiced skepticism towards certain polls, highlighting internal data suggesting tighter competition.
For further edits on this report, reach Ben Kelly and Cristina Diciu.