US President Donald Trump targeted Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico during a campaign rally in Corpus Christi, Texas, on October 27, 2026. Trump questioned Talarico's recent absence from public events and made unsupported claims about his health and eating habits. The remarks came as former Republican Texas Supreme Court Chief Justice Tom Phillips publicly endorsed Talarico.

Trump Attacks Talarico at Texas Rally

Trump criticised Talarico while campaigning for Republican Senate candidate Ken Paxton ahead of the November 3 midterm elections.

The president suggested that Talarico's absence was connected to food poisoning from eating meat. He also speculated about the Democrat's mental health without presenting supporting evidence.

Trump's comments followed earlier personal attacks against Talarico during campaign appearances in several states.

James Talarico Explains Campaign Absence

Talarico had temporarily stepped away from public campaigning earlier in October. He and his campaign said he was recovering from a severe case of influenza.

Online claims suggested that Talarico had been receiving treatment at an Ohio mental health facility. The Lindner Center of Hope denied that he had ever received treatment there.

Talarico also rejected the allegations and resumed public appearances, including events in Texas.

There is no credible evidence supporting claims that his absence resulted from a mental health crisis.

Trump Repeats Unsupported Meat Claims

Trump has repeatedly claimed that Talarico is secretly vegan and becomes sick after eating meat at campaign barbecues.

However, Talarico has denied being vegan, and publicly available campaign footage shows him eating meat.

The president has not provided evidence supporting his claim that Talarico vomits after consuming meat.

The allegations have become a recurring part of Trump's campaign speeches, despite independent fact-checks finding them unsupported.

Tom Phillips Endorses James Talarico

Former Texas Supreme Court Chief Justice Tom Phillips announced his support for Talarico on October 26.

Phillips, a longtime Republican who served as chief justice from 1988 to 2004, explained his decision in a published opinion article.

He expressed concerns about Paxton's record and said he believed Talarico would approach congressional responsibilities with greater willingness to work across party lines.

Phillips also made clear that he continued supporting Republican candidates in several other races.

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Texas Senate Election 2026

The Texas Senate contest features Republican Ken Paxton and Democrat James Talarico, with both campaigns seeking support before November 3.

Trump has actively campaigned for Paxton, while Talarico has received endorsements from several prominent Republicans who disagree with their party's nominee.

The contest has drawn national attention because of its implications for representation in the US Senate.

Voters will decide the outcome when they cast their ballots in the midterm elections.