James Talarico, a Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate in Texas, previously expressed views on parents who reject their children’s gender identity. In a 2019 committee hearing in the Texas Legislature, he suggested that such actions could be considered “abusive” behavior. Talarico remarked, “I think there are some folks that would think that if you deny your child’s gender identity, that’s incredibly harmful. And whether or not we label it with the term abuse, it’s abusive for sure.”

The resurfacing of these comments challenges Talarico’s current positioning as a moderate on topics like gender, policing, and border security. This stance is pivotal as he campaigns in Texas, historically a Republican stronghold.

During a speech related to HB 1910, Talarico voiced concerns over legislation stating that parental refusal to affirm a child’s gender identity should not be deemed child abuse in custody decisions. The bill’s text read, “In determining whether to appoint a party as a sole or joint managing conservator of a child, the court may not consider evidence regarding whether the party demonstrates a history or pattern of acknowledging or declining to acknowledge the child’s gender identity or expression.”

Talarico opposed this bill, arguing, “My concern is ruling it out as not being abuse, I think, is dangerous and could certainly harm some of our most vulnerable kids in the state.” He emphasized that failing to recognize a child’s gender identity might be seen as abusive and destructive.

His position was criticized by opponents. Zach Kraft of the Republican National Committee remarked, “Only perverts and pedophiles think about what is in little kids’ pants as much as James Talafreako. He is a truly sick individual for dedicating his life to pushing sex changes on other people’s kids.”

Although the initial version of HB 1910 did not pass, a stronger version eventually became law in May 2025. Talarico voted against the final legislation. He supported an amendment that would sunset the law in 2030, suggesting that rejecting a child’s gender identity or sexual orientation is abuse.

When questioned about his stance, the Talarico campaign emphasized his support for parental rights. “James believes parents have the most important say in decisions about their children, which is why he sponsored a bill to protect parental rights and ensure parents are responsible for the upbringing of their own kids. While James has fought for Texas parents and families, Ken Paxton has endangered them by allowing pedophiles back on our streets,” said JT Ennis, a spokesperson for Talarico’s campaign.

Leo Briceno, a politics reporter at Fox News Digital, contributed to this coverage. He has previously worked with World Magazine.