Thomas Beaumont, Associated Press
WASHINGTON (AP) — During a rally in San Antonio, Texas, Republican Senate candidate Ken Paxton criticized his opponent, Democratic nominee James Talarico, for not holding campaign events. "Where is James Talarico?" Paxton asked on Wednesday.
Later that evening, President Donald Trump, while returning to Washington on Air Force One, suggested on social media that Talarico, who is reportedly suffering from the flu, "should immediately report to a Debate Stage" to face Paxton.
Talarico welcomed Trump's comment, stating on Thursday morning, "President Trump just said Ken Paxton should debate. I agree. Ball's in your court @KenPaxtonTX."
As of now, no debate has been scheduled, and Paxton has not publicly responded to Trump's suggestion. Some Republicans are concerned that Paxton could be the first Republican to lose a Senate race in Texas in nearly four decades and have urged him to debate to strengthen his position in the competitive race.
Talarico has been advocating for a debate since July, proposing three televised debates and inviting Paxton to debate on Fox News. In a video, Talarico left a voicemail for Paxton, saying, "Hey Ken, it's James. Texans start voting in less than a month and they deserve to hear from both of us before they do. So, if Fox News is where you'll be most comfortable, I'll be there."
The campaign has largely unfolded through advertisements, with over $247 million spent by the candidates and outside groups, according to AdImpact. The candidates have not yet appeared together before voters.
Paxton's campaign indicated in July that he would debate Talarico but later raised objections to proposed moderators. Although an agreement with a news outlet was suggested, none has been confirmed.
In the absence of a debate, Paxton has focused on Talarico's campaign activities, demanding video proof of Talarico's well-being. Madison Cercy, a spokeswoman for Paxton's campaign, remarked, "Low-T Jimmy appears to be having a full-blown mental Tala-freak-out on the national stage. We have a simple request: proof of life."
Talarico is expected to resume campaigning this weekend leading up to the election on November 3, aides indicated.