Ken Paxton has said he is ready to debate Democratic rival James Talarico in the Texas Senate race, but only if the event is not overseen by a CNN reporter.
The Texas attorney general set out his position during a campaign stop at a Buc-ee’s, where he discussed politics over beef jerky. Paxton said he was “ready, willing and able” to face Talarico, echoing recent remarks by President Trump.
However, he objected to the proposed involvement of CNN, saying: “I don’t want to end up with the CNN reporter covering the debate.”
Paxton said he remained open to a debate under different conditions, while also outlining further terms for taking part.
He framed the contest as a choice between his campaign and what he described as “Marxist” and “Democratic Socialist” policies. Paxton argued that Talarico would be harmful to Texas’s economy, border security and oil industry.
The Republican candidate also expressed confidence in his campaign as the election approaches. Former NBA star Al Harrington appeared to offer Paxton his backing.
