HOUSTON — During a recent address at the Republican Party of Texas convention in Houston, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick made headlines by declaring that Democratic nominee for the U.S. Senate, Rep. James Talarico, would “go to hell” for his biblical interpretations. Talarico has prominently featured his Christian beliefs as a central theme of his campaign.
Patrick’s remarks came as he accused Talarico, an Austin state representative, of injecting faith into a Senate race that is anticipated to be both costly and fiercely contested. The Democratic Party aims to leverage growing anti-Trump sentiment in their pursuit of the first statewide victory in Texas in over 30 years.
“It’s James Talarico who 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 stated, prompting an enthusiastic response from the audience. He added, “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. That’s what we’re up against. That’s the darkness. That’s the light. That’s why we must be one.”
In response to Patrick’s comments, Talarico issued a statement later that evening, accusing the lieutenant governor of prioritizing the interests of wealthy donors over the needs of the poor and vulnerable. “Love feels like blasphemy when you worship power,” he remarked in a social media post.
Attorney General Ken Paxton, who is set to face Talarico in the general election, also spoke at the convention. Patrick, a key figure in the GOP, has consistently supported Christian values, advocating for legislation that has historically struggled to pass in the Texas House until recent successes, such as implementing the display of the Ten Commandments in public schools.
Furthermore, Patrick has been recognized for his close ties to former President Trump, who appointed him to lead the Presidential Religious Liberty Commission, a body responsible for formulating policy proposals concerning religious freedom.
