Fresh Blood vs. Fossilized Fools with James Talarico
My latest episode of The Lincoln Project podcast
Texas is breaking at the seams—divided, bitter, and locked in a political cage match that’s left ordinary Texans stuck in the middle. For decades, the state has been painted bright red, but now the cracks are showing, and a fresh wave of underdog organizers and voters is daring to repaint the map purple. From the San Antonio Spurs to street culture, from BBQ pits to the Capitol floor, Texas' fresh politics is colliding with an old guard terrified of losing power—on fights over voting rights, gerrymandering, abortion bans, gun violence, border and immigration, book bans, school vouchers, property taxes, and the ERCOT power grid. In this episode, James Talarico joins me for a hard look at a changing Purple Texas—how Gen Z, Latino voters, suburban women, and independents are shifting the map; why MAGA extremism and corrupt politicians (like Ken Paxton) keep stoking culture wars; and how fresh leadership can take power back for the people and revive democracy in the Lone Star State.
Great show, Rick. First time I’ve seen James Talarico. He’s something!
I’ve heard you give the speech about what democrats need to do. Being area specific and not getting caught in the rhetoric of what it is to be a democrat. Bringing on Talrico MADE it make sense! I’ve been a fan of his for a while, he even won over Rogan! Thank you for using him as an example for what you’ve been trying to explain for months.