US Republicans Criticize Christian Candidates Over LGBT Positions
In October 2026, US Republicans are using campaign ads against Democratic candidates connected to Christian churches, criticizing their positions on LGBT and transgender issues. Religion News Service reported on October 29 on campaigns in Texas, Iowa and Kansas. Congressional elections take place on November 3.
In Texas, state Attorney General and Senate candidate Ken Paxton released an ad on September 8 featuring an AI-generated version of his opponent, state lawmaker and Presbyterian seminarian James Talarico. The character reads a fictional “Talarico Bible,” including remarks about God being “nonbinary.” According to FactCheck.org’s analysis, the ad combines separate statements, omits context and adds phrases Talarico did not say. Talarico explains that his point was that human categories cannot define God.
In Iowa, Republican Joe Mitchell questioned the pastoral ministry of his opponent, Presbyterian pastor and state Representative Lindsay James, because she supports transgender athletes’ participation on women’s teams. Republican Congressman Zach Nunn criticizes another candidate, Lutheran pastor and state Senator Sarah Trone Garriott, for supporting gender-affirming medical care.
In Kansas, Methodist pastor and Democratic Senate candidate Adam Hamilton opposed transgender girls’ participation on girls’ sports teams during an October 21 debate, citing fairness and safety. As The Christian Post reports, he proposed leaving decisions to local organizations and urged an end to bullying. His opponent, Republican Senator Roger Marshall, supports federal restrictions and doubts Hamilton would vote independently of Democratic leaders.
The campaigns have prompted differing responses among Christians who support LGBT people. Speaking to RNS, pastor Brian Ellison, executive director of the Covenant Network of Presbyterians, described Talarico’s views as an extension of his religious tradition. Reconciling Ministries Network leader Andi Woodworth, a transgender Methodist pastor, criticizes some Democrats’ retreat from supporting transgender people. Both organizations support LGBT people within their churches.
According to AdImpact data reported by The Associated Press, Republicans had spent approximately $183 million on television ads attacking Democrats over transgender issues through October 25 — about 217,000 airings nationwide.
Uránia previously reported on Talarico’s explanation of his “nonbinary God” remarks at a town hall.
