Texas Democrat Senate hopeful James Talarico says he abandoned plans to complete his ordination because he views his campaign for higher office as a different kind of ministry.
According to Breitbart, Talarico recounted that he wrestled with the decision last summer and ultimately sought spiritual counsel from his pastor before entering the race. He explained, I was trying to decide between running for the seat and finishing my ordination as part of my seminary journey, repeating, And I was trying to decide between running for the seat and finishing my ordination as part of my seminary journey.
Talarico said his pastor encouraged him by framing electoral politics itself as a spiritual calling rather than a departure from it. He said, you know, this campaign can also be a form of ministry. And when were out here and were giving hope to people who have been starved of hope, Talarico added.
He continued, When we bring people together who normally wouldnt be together, it does feel like were doing some kind of ministry. Such rhetoric will likely raise eyebrows among voters who believe the pulpit and partisan politics should remain clearly separated, especially when the ministry in question advances a progressive agenda.
Talarico launched his Senate bid in September 2025 and went on to defeat Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX) in the Democrat primary this March. He now heads into a high-stakes general election against Republican Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton on November 3, 2026, in a contest that will determine the successor to retiring Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX).
Login