Texas State Representative Brian Harrison (R) is calling on House leadership to remove fellow lawmaker James Talarico (D) from key committee positions following the resurfacing of past comments that have drawn national attention.
In a letter addressed to Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows, Rep. Harrison urged immediate action to strip Rep. Talarico of his vice chairmanships, citing a series of statements and videos that have circulated online.
Harrison pointed to remarks in which Talarico discussed gender identity, theology, and abortion, arguing that the views are out of step with Texas voters.
"Shocking statements and videos of Representative James Talarico have made national headlines," Harrison wrote, referencing comments he described as "extremist positions."
Talarico currently serves as Vice Chair of the House Committee on Trade, Workforce, and Economic Development, as well as Vice Chair of the Public Education Subcommittee on Academic and Career-Oriented Education.
Harrison argued that those roles give Talarico significant influence over legislative priorities and interim hearings, along with access to additional taxpayer-funded resources. He also criticized Speaker Burrows for appointing Talarico to those positions, noting that many of the statements now drawing scrutiny were made before the start of the current legislative session.
"By placing Rep. Talarico in House leadership, you gave him a platform that aided his rise to national prominence," wrote Harrison.
The letter formally requests Talarico's removal from his vice chairmanships and from the Education Committee entirely. Harrison also suggested that if House rules prevent such action, Burrows should consider creating alternative committees that exclude Talarico while maintaining the same jurisdiction and responsibilities.
"While these appointments were inappropriate at the time, they are untenable now," wrote Harrison.
The dispute comes as Talarico has gained increased national visibility through his campaign for the Senate, and as political tensions within the Texas House continue to reflect broader ideological divides between Republicans and Democrats.
