Texas Senate Candidate James Talarico to Hold Fundraiser in Los Angeles

<p>Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico is scheduled to travel to Los Angeles in September for a fundraiser featuring Hollywood celebrities, as reported by Politico. The event will be hosted by Damon Lindelof and his wife, Heidi, in Brentwood on September 10, with ticket prices ranging from $500 to $13,500. This marks Talarico's second Hollywood fundraiser in a few months; the first occurred in June at the home of producer Peter Chernin.</p><p>In contrast, Talarico's opponent, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, will attend the Republican National Committee’s midterm convention in Dallas, which will also feature President Donald Trump and other Republican figures. On the same night, former President Barack Obama will headline a Democratic fundraiser in New York.</p><p>According to campaign finance records, approximately 50% of the funds raised by Talarico have come from donors outside Texas. Talarico has faced criticism from Republicans regarding his out-of-state fundraising efforts. RNC spokesperson Zach Kraft commented that Talarico appears more comfortable in California than in Texas, referencing his use of a cowboy hat and pickup truck as an attempt to appear more Texan.</p><p>Talarico, a progressive Democratic lawmaker in the Texas House of Representatives, has been criticized by Republicans for his previous statements, including remarks about gender and climate change. Despite the criticisms, polls indicate a competitive race between Talarico and Paxton, with a Fox News poll from July showing Talarico with a slight lead of 51% to 48%, within the margin of error.</p><p>Paxton has suggested that Talarico's lead is not unexpected due to his early start in the general election following a contentious primary runoff. Senator John Kennedy (R-La.) emphasized the importance of fundraising in the race and called on Trump to assist Paxton financially. Trump has expressed his commitment to support Paxton and has indicated plans to campaign in Texas.</p>