Arkansas – Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders renewed her criticism of Texas state Rep. James Talarico this week after he made comments about God during a recent interview.
On June 3, Sanders responded to a quote attributed to Talarico in which he said, “God is not a Christian. God is not a noun at all. God is a verb.” Sharing a post referencing the remarks, Sanders wrote on social media, “Bad theology 🤝 Bad grammar – James Talarico.”
The exchange is the latest in an ongoing disagreement between Sanders and Talarico, a Texas Democrat who has drawn national attention for discussing political and social issues through the lens of his Christian faith.
Just days earlier, Sanders criticized Talarico over comments he made regarding abortion. In an interview published May 26, Talarico said he trusts women to make decisions about their own bodies and argued that government should not make those decisions. He also said his position was informed by his faith, adding that “Jesus never talks about abortion” and that “the Bible is silent on abortion.”
In response, Sanders quoted Jeremiah 1:5, writing, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart…” She added that “The God of the universe undeniably values life at all stages, and it’s absolutely disgusting for Talarico to imply otherwise.”
Talarico, a former middle school teacher and current Texas state representative, has become one of the Democratic Party’s most visible faith-based voices. He is also studying at a Presbyterian seminary and has frequently argued that Christian teachings support positions often associated with progressive politics.
His religious views have attracted significant attention during his 2026 U.S. Senate campaign in Texas. In addition to his comments about abortion, Talarico has previously argued that God is “beyond gender” and has said he does not believe such views are controversial from a theological perspective.
The debate highlights a broader national conversation about the role of faith in politics. Talarico has sought to present a progressive interpretation of Christianity centered on inclusion and social justice, while critics argue that some of his statements conflict with traditional Christian teachings, VOX reported.
The public exchange between Sanders and Talarico comes as the Texas Democrat continues his Senate campaign, where his faith and theological views have become a frequent topic of discussion among supporters and critics alike.