President Donald Trump mocked Texas Democratic Senate nominee James Talarico at rallies in Corpus Christi and Lubbock on Tuesday. Trump acted out Talarico eating barbecue and claimed he cannot stand meat.
Trump said Talarico vomits behind the tent after eating barbecue.
Talarico has denied claims that he is secretly vegan.
Trump said Talarico disappeared from the campaign for 12 to 14 days.
Trump also attacked Talarico's comments on transgender children and drag shows.
Why it matters: Trump was in Texas to back Republican Ken Paxton against Talarico one week before the midterms. Surveys show Republicans could lose their congressional majorities.
52% to 41%: Democrats lead the generic House ballot in a New York Times/Siena poll.
Strong LeftLeftLean LeftCenterLean RightRightStrong Right
Political Bias
Coverage by lean% of 9 sources
9 sources · 11 articles · 78% Left coverage
Where they split: Outlets disagree over whether the bit was a fair, funny jab at a rival or a false and bizarre claim that distracts from campaign issues.
Left coverage, 7 sources: The left sees a bizarre rant built on a false claim that Talarico is vegan, delivered as Republicans face possible midterm losses.
