Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick drew criticism after saying Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico would be "going to hell," comments that escalated tensions in an already heated U.S. Senate race.
Speaking at the Republican Party of Texas convention in Houston, Patrick accused Talarico of injecting religion into his campaign and sharply criticized his interpretation of Christianity.
"James Talarico 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," Patrick said. "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."
Patrick also called Talarico "crazy," and urged Republicans to unify ahead of November.
"We cannot lose Texas. We cannot lose this Senate race," he said. "James Talarico is crazy, but he's their crazy."
Talarico responded in a statement posted on X, accusing Patrick of prioritizing wealthy donors over working Texans.
"Dan Patrick has sold out the poor, the sick and the vulnerable to enrich his donors," he said.
For decades, Dan Patrick has sold out the poor, the sick, and the vulnerable to enrich his donors.
— James Talarico (@jamestalarico) June 13, 2026
Love feels like blasphemy when you worship power. https://t.co/t87pzLuwuf
The race for Texas' U.S. Senate seat remains competitive as Election Day approaches. Talarico faces Republican nominee and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in a closely watched contest.
A May poll from the Texas Public Opinion Research showed Talarico leading Paxton 47% to 44% in a hypothetical general election matchup, with support driven in part by independents and moderate voters. The poll also found that more than half of GOP runoff voters who shifted support toward Talarico cited Paxton's legal issues as a key factor.
However, a more recent Texas Pulse poll cited by The Hill found the race effectively tied, with both candidates at 46%. Among independent voters, Talarico held a 14-point lead.
According to The Hill, Talarico's campaign also reported significantly more cash on hand, $7.5 million more than Paxton's, based on Federal Election Commission filings.
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