Topic: Flu

Texas politician James Tallerico addresses a town hall to debunk rumors regarding a nine-day absence from the campaign trail. Tallerico clarifies that he was recovering from the flu and criticizes the "rage economy" on social media that spread false claims about his health and whereabouts. He emphasizes that such conspiracy theories do not address the real problems facing Texans.

Texas Senate candidate James Tallarico faced criticism from opponent Ken Paxton after canceling campaign events due to a flu diagnosis. Paxton and President Trump amplified rumors about Tallarico's absence, with Trump jokingly suggesting the candidate was sick from being forced to eat meat. Tallarico eventually re-emerged at the Austin City Limits music festival to dispel rumors and resume block-walking efforts.