James Dell Talarico is an American politician and former educator who has served since 2018 as a member of the Texas House of Representatives. A Democrat, he is the party's nominee in the 2026 U.S. Senate election in Texas. Born in Round Rock, Texas, Talarico is a former middle school teacher and a Presbyterian seminarian. He has gained national attention for his progressive, Christian platform and his focus on fighting corruption. In the legislature, he serves on committees including House Administration, Public Education, and Trade, Workforce & Economic Development. Talarico is known for his advocacy on education and economic issues, and his campaign emphasizes restoring power to working people.