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◆ Mixed look for TrumpElections / Campaigns

Trump wants Talarico and Paxton to debate. Talarico couldn’t be happier

Trump called on Talarico to debate Paxton, prompting Talarico to publicly agree.

Trump wants Talarico and Paxton to debate. Talarico couldn’t be happier
Image · KOB.com

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Outlet credibilityKOB.com80/100 HIGH
This article1 analysis · Oct 9, 2026

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Associated Press95/100 HIGH

346 stories · 94–95 · updated Oct 10, 2026

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KOB.comcites Associated Press
Oct 8, 2026
tl;dr

Donald Trump urged James Talarico to debate Ken Paxton, and Talarico publicly agreed. No debate has been scheduled, and Paxton has not publicly responded to Trump’s demand.

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Donald Trump R · President of the United States
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Donald Trump
R · President of the United States

President who urged Talarico and Paxton to debate

PRIMARY SUBJECT

Democratic Senate candidate who agreed to debate Ken Paxton

Talarico's version of this story ↗
Ken Paxton
R · TX

Republican Senate candidate urged to debate Talarico

Paxton's version of this story ↗

Part of a bigger story

8 OUTLETS
Trump Calls for Debate Between Talarico and Paxton

Trump called for James Talarico and Ken Paxton to debate in their Texas Senate race. Center outlets often put that call alongside Talarico’s debate offers and Paxton’s lack of acceptance or response, while several also cover Trump’s criticism of Talarico’s campaign absence. Right-leaning outlets foreground Trump’s demand and criticism of Talarico, adding the race’s possible stakes for Senate control.

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