Texas Rep. Talarico denies subscribing to OnlyFans amid controversy

Amid his campaign for the U.S. Senate, Texas state Rep. James Talarico, D-Austin, faced scrutiny for his social media activity. Known for his criticism of Christian nationalism and his identity as a “Presbyterian seminarian,” Talarico’s Instagram account, with a following of 1.7 million, was discovered to follow several accounts related to OnlyFans models, porn stars, and escorts.

The controversy arose following a report by Axios, which highlighted that Talarico, a 36-year-old Democrat, communicated with an OnlyFans model, thanking her for her support. This interaction, alongside following 10 accounts linked to adult content, attracted attention.

Among the 3,721 accounts that Talarico follows, some included adult actresses and escorts. Axios noted that Talarico’s account had shown approval by “liking” images from user Allie Pentz, who purportedly has a profile on an escort site.

A campaign screenshot, provided to the New York Post, showed Talarico expressing gratitude to OnlyFans model Alice Greczyn for her Instagram story mention. “Thank you, Alice!” Talarico wrote, to which Greczyn replied, “Thank YOU! Really appreciate your work. It heartens me to see there are politicians like you.”

JT Ennis, Talarico’s campaign spokesperson, responding to Axios, stated that Talarico had not subscribed to OnlyFans or any escort service. Ennis highlighted the approach of Talarico and his social media team, saying, “The social media team — including James — follows back and engages with supporters who have large followings and does not investigate their backgrounds.” Ennis further emphasized that this aligns with Talarico’s Christian beliefs, which encourage non-judgment.

Known for his progressive views, Talarico has claimed Jesus as a “radical feminist” and suggested the existence of “six biological sexes.” His stance against “Christian nationalism” and theological support for liberal positions has previously made headlines. On “The Joe Rogan Experience,” he discussed consent in the context of the Virgin Mary’s story, arguing that creation should involve consent.

In 2023, Talarico led efforts opposing Senate Bill 1515, which aimed to display the Ten Commandments in Texas schools, labeling the bill as “idolatrous.” He also opposed a bill restricting “sexually explicit materials” in schools, emphasizing parental consent.

Raised in the liberal St. Andrew Presbyterian Church in Austin, where his father served as a Baptist minister, Talarico’s pastor, Jim Rigby, faced trial for ordaining LGBT clergy. In a 2022 sermon, Talarico warned against “Christofascism,” describing it as a form of Christianity that seeks power.