Key facts
- A $15 million ad campaign has been launched by allies of Ken Paxton.
- The advertisements target James Talarico, accusing him of supporting China and a "Texas Green New Deal."
- Concerns are raised about Chinese land ownership near Laughlin Air Force Base.
- Talarico's campaign has a substantial financial advantage over Paxton.
- Talarico has spent significantly on television advertising.
Allies of Ken Paxton have initiated a $15 million advertising campaign aimed at James Talarico, a political opponent. The advertisements accuse Talarico of aiding China's economic growth at the expense of Texas residents, citing his vote against restrictions on Chinese investments and raising national security concerns about Chinese ownership of land near Laughlin Air Force Base.
Lone Star Liberty spokesperson Sam Cooper stated that Talarico "voted to sell Texas land to China, pushed a Texas Green New Deal that would gut our oil and gas jobs, and stood with criminals over cops." Cooper added that Talarico's record is "too extreme for Texas."
The substantial ad spending comes as Republicans seek to counter Talarico's significant financial advantage. Federal Election Commission filings from July show Talarico with $21.5 million in reserve, far exceeding Paxton's $1.8 million. This financial edge, coupled with Paxton's focus on a primary runoff against Sen. John Cornyn, has allowed Talarico to lead the general election messaging. Talarico has reportedly spent $39 million on television advertising since the March primary, according to data tracking firm AdImpact.