WATCH: Talarico's Church Gives New Members Bible that Erases 'Son of God' from Jesus's NameTexas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico's long-time church, St. Andrew's Presbyterian in Austin, provides new members with an 'Inclusive Bible' that replaces traditional gendered language for God, such as 'Lord,' with terms like 'Most High' and 'Sovereign One.' This Bible, first published in 2007 by Priests for Equality, also rewords Jesus' titles, removing references like 'Son of God' and replacing them with phrases like 'Only Begotten' and 'Eternally Begotten.' The practice was revealed through undercover video footage showing the distribution of these Bibles during a church service. Reverend Jim Rigby, the church's pastor and Talarico's spiritual mentor, acknowledged the Bible's focus on inclusivity but criticized its handling of more 'metaphysical' content. Talarico, who was baptized at the church and has strong personal ties to it, previously stated in a 2021 debate that 'God is non-binary,' a statement he later described as cringey and deliberately provocative. The church identifies as 'Presbyterian & Progressive' and claims many congregants identify as agnostic or atheist.
Bias read (Conservative): The article highlights the religious practices of a prominent political figure, emphasizing the use of an 'inclusive' Bible that omits traditional theological terminology. While presenting factual information, the framing focuses on the potential implications of Talarico's affiliations and beliefs,
James Talarico, Seeking Black Votes in Texas Senate Rate, Wins Crucial EndorsementJames Talarico, a white candidate who defeated a Black opponent in the Texas Senate primary, has received crucial support from the Congressional Black Caucus’s political arm. This endorsement comes as Talarico prepares to face Republican state Attorney General Ken Paxton in the November general election. The backing suggests some Black political leaders see potential in Talarico’s candidacy despite his race. The outcome could influence the balance of power in the Texas Senate.
Bias read (Center): The article presents Talarico's victory over a Black opponent and his upcoming matchup against a Republican, but does not overtly frame the endorsement as supportive or critical of either candidate. It reports the fact without clear ideological leaning, maintaining neutrality in tone and focus.
Paxton’s AI-Heavy Ad Leaves Out Context of Talarico Remarks About ChristianityRepublican candidate Ken Paxton ran an AI-generated advertisement featuring a deepfake version of his Democratic opponent, James Talarico, repeating statements about religion and gender identity. The ad omitted crucial context surrounding Talarico's remarks, including clarifications he later provided. Talarico, a Presbyterian seminarian and Texas state representative, had previously expressed views on nonbinary God and multiple genders, which he later sought to clarify. The ad, released on September 8, was tracked by AdImpact and aired across Texas and nationally. It included a disclaimer noting the AI-generated content but failed to fully disclose the nature of the deepfake. Talarico's campaign criticized the ad as an attempt to misrepresent him using dark money tactics. The ad also featured remarks from Talarico that were later cited by Paxton at a Republican midterm convention.
Bias read (Conservative): The article frames the AI-generated ad as an intentional distortion by Paxton's campaign, emphasizing the use of technology to manipulate public perception. The focus on Talarico's controversial remarks and the implication that Paxton is countering misinformation aligns with conservative narratives.
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