# Talarico's 'backsliding democracy' comments resurface in Texas race

> The Democratic Senate candidate said America should look to Western Europe for inspiration on democracy.
- Title: Talarico's 'backsliding democracy' comments resurface in…
- Summary: The Democratic Senate candidate said America should look to Western Europe for inspiration on democracy. Past statements from candidates often resurface…
- Keywords: james talarico, texas, senate race, ken paxton, democracy, western europe, meidastouch network, elon musk, jasmine crockett, republican, democrat, 2024 election
- Source: Fox News — https://foxnews.com/politics/texas-senate-candidate-talarico-said-us-backsliding-democracy-resurfaced-clip
- Author: Michael Sinkewicz
- Published: 2026-09-16T00:00:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: james talarico, texas, senate race, ken paxton, democracy, western europe, meidastouch network, elon musk, jasmine crockett, republican, democrat, 2024 election
## America is 'backsliding' on democracy
Talarico said in a June 2024 interview that the U.S. hasn't lived up to the promise of democracy and is moving backward.

> We haven't lived up to the promise of democracy. And of course, some countries are farther along than others, and sadly, here in America...we are backsliding.
## Look to Europe for inspiration
The Democratic candidate suggested Americans should look to Western European countries for ideas on how to create a true democracy.
## Elon Musk weighs in
The clip drew fresh attention on social media this week. Musk responded to the resurfaced remarks with a single word: 'No.'
## Campaign defends the comments
Talarico's spokesperson said he agrees America is the greatest country and Texas the greatest state, and we should fight for a more perfect union.
## Other controversial statements resurface
Republicans have highlighted past remarks including that he 'hates Christianity,' that 'God is nonbinary,' and that the American flag is a 'complicated symbol.'
## Facing Paxton in general election
Talarico, a former teacher and seminarian, defeated Rep. Jasmine Crockett for the Democratic nomination and now faces Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton.
## Key takeaway

Past statements from candidates often resurface during tight races, forcing campaigns to defend or reframe earlier positions.