On a typical taco Tuesday in downtown Austin, an unexpected visitor made a grand entrance: former President Barack Obama.
As patrons at Taco Joint, located near the University of Texas at Austin, were enjoying their meals, they were taken by surprise when Obama arrived alongside James Talarico and Gina Hinojosa, the Democratic candidates for U.S. Senate and governor, respectively.
The trio spent approximately 30 minutes engaging in grassroots campaigning, moving from booth to booth, and discussing a range of topics, including data centers and voting rights. The youthful crowd erupted in excitement upon Obama’s arrival, and he took the time to ask one group if they recognized Hinojosa and Talarico, referring to them as the state’s “next governor and senator.”
Although Obama did not deliver any formal remarks or endorsements for the candidates, his presence served as a significant endorsement of national support for the Democrats vying for top positions in Texas. This election cycle presents a critical opportunity for Democrats, who are hoping that the backlash against the Trump administration will propel them to their first statewide victory since 1994. However, both Talarico and Hinojosa face formidable challenges: U.S. Senator John Cornyn and Attorney General Ken Paxton are currently embroiled in a heated runoff for the GOP Senate nomination, while Governor Greg Abbott is campaigning for a fourth term with a substantial war chest of $96 million.
Latino influencer Carlos Eduardo Espina captured the moment, taking photos of Obama with Talarico, Hinojosa, and Taco Joint staff. Following the event, Cornyn remarked on social media, expressing hope that Talarico would also bring Obama and U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders to join him on the campaign trail during the general election. Sanders is scheduled to be a keynote speaker at the upcoming Texas Democratic Convention.
Earlier in his campaign, Obama had praised Talarico as a “terrific, really talented young man,” providing an early boost to Talarico’s national visibility.
As for his meal, Obama opted for a “sampling” of street tacos, fish tacos, mole, and shrimp tacos, while Talarico, recognized by the cashier, ordered his usual two potato, egg, and cheese breakfast tacos. Hinojosa chose two street tacos without onions. The former president paid with cash and did not require any change.
Espina was present, ready to capture videos, and noted the cashier’s nervousness at the prospect of taking Obama’s order. Talarico’s family members, including his parents, sister, and baby niece Jane, were also in attendance. Jane brought along a children’s book featuring quotes from former First Lady Michelle Obama, which Obama graciously signed, writing, “To Jane — dream big dreams!”
As he exited the establishment with Talarico and Hinojosa, Obama encouraged the crowd, shouting, “Remember to vote!” which was met with enthusiastic cheers.
