KILLEEN, Texas (KWTX) – James Talarico, the Texas Democrat running for the U.S. Senate, said he wants to turn Texas purple, not blue, as he unveiled his plan to help veterans and support the Veterans Affairs Department.
“I’m not interested in turning Texas blue. I want to win this seat to fight for all 31 million Texans – Democrat, Republican and independents,” Talarico said.
“My party talks a lot about turning Texas blue. Republicans talk a lot about keeping Texas red. I think the best color for Texas is purple. I think she would look great in purple.”
Talarico explained a “purple Texas” would lead to more competitive elections that would force politicians to better serve the public instead of resorting to “crazy” culture war issues.
When you have competitive elections, you get better public policy, Talarico added. “My hope for this race is to finally end 30 years of single party rule and get some competitive elections back in Texas,” he said.
The Austin-based Democrat further said he is “incredibly proud and incredibly motivated” by the fact that Texas is home to more veterans than any other state in the U.S.
“Our veterans, our military service members, our military families, deserve so much better,” Talarico told a small group of veterans in Killeen. “Too many of our veterans are returning home to a country that is unprepared to help them transition to civilian life.”
Talarico explained the main focus of his plan to help veterans will be to expand mental health services, “fully fund the VA,” reform the process that helps veterans transition into civilian life, and protect Gold Star families.
Talarico said he crafted his plan after meeting with veterans across Texas, many of whom reportedly complain about increased wait times at the VA in the wake of DOGE.
In Texas, Talarico said, 500 veterans die by suicide every year. “That is unacceptable. We have to improve education about care options, we have to expand telemedicine options and we have to expand the mental health workforce to reduce wait times and ensure every veteran gets the care they need.”
Secondly, Talarico said he would fight to “fully fund” the VA and prevent it from being privatized.
Third, he has a plan to reform the military-to-civilian life transition process, including funding for better services for at risk and homeless veterans.
“We have to take care of our Gold Star Families. I would support the Love Lives On Act to ensure that surviving spouses of fallen service members do not lose their benefits when they remarry.”
Lastly, Talarico said he would fight to end the “disastrous” war in Iran, which has led to the deaths of 18 service members, including Isabella Gonzalez, 19, of Texas.
“We have to put our money where our mouth is. We can’t just honor our veterans with our words. Actions speak louder than words, especially, when it comes to the challenges our military families are facing,” the Texas Democrat said.
Talarico is facing Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton for the U.S. Senate seat held by John Cornyn.
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