James Talarico was asked a pretty simple question at a campaign event: Who is his favorite drag queen in Texas?
His answer came quickly: “Probably Alyssa Edwards.”
And just like that, a perfectly harmless pop-culture question became political ammunition.
On September 14, Republican Texas Attorney General and U.S. Senate candidate Ken Paxton shared video of the exchange on social media and questioned how quickly James had an answer. Paxton called Talarico “too weird” and “too radical” for Texas, while tying the moment to Talarico’s past support for drag performers and LGBTQ+ issues.
Because apparently knowing your drag queens is now part of the political discourse.
READ: Pete Hegseth’s Spiritual Advisor Wants Rep. Talarico “Crucified with Christ”
Alyssa Edwards Has Entered the Chat
If there was one person who wasn’t particularly bothered by Talarico’s answer, it was Alyssa Edwards herself.
@thealyssaedwards It turns out @James Talarico has a favorite Drag Queen… He’s got good taste 👏🏻 ⭐️ Always and Forever, Alyssa Edwards #alyssaedwards #JamesTalarico #Texas #DollyParton
The Texas-born drag superstar, whose real name is Justin Dwayne Lee Johnson, responded by thanking the democratic politician for recognizing the arts and celebrating Texas talent. Edwards later reposted the controversy with the wonderfully self-aware caption, “Your favorite politician’s favorite Drag Queen.”
She also referenced Matthew 7:1, ending her post with a reminder about not judging others.
Your favorite politician’s favorite Drag Queen.
Thank you @jamestalarico for recognizing that the arts have a purpose and a home right here in the Lone Star State.
Matthew 7:1 #ProudTexan https://t.co/Dv1jjsR3cF— Alyssa Edwards (@AlyssaEdwards_1) September 15, 2026
Honestly, Alyssa understood the assignment.
Why Talarico Keeps Ending Up Here
The latest dust-up is part of a broader political fight over the democratic politician’s record and statements involving LGBTQ+ issues.
While serving in the Texas House, Talarico opposed Republican restrictions affecting LGBTQ+ Texans, including measures involving drag performances. In 2023, Texas lawmakers passed legislation restricting sexually explicit performances in front of children after earlier versions specifically targeted drag shows.
More recently, Talarico has faced criticism from both conservatives and some LGBTQ+ advocates over his evolving positions on transgender issues. On September 9, he said he opposed transgender student-athletes competing in girls’ sports when he believes it risks safety or fairness, a shift from positions he previously held in the Texas House.
But the latest controversy isn’t really about a policy proposal. It’s about a politician being able to instantly name his favorite drag queen.
Talarico may be running for the U.S. Senate, but for one very entertaining moment, the Texas Senate race had a starring role for Alyssa Edwards.
And honestly? Of all the campaign questions to go viral, this one has excellent taste.