Paxton Flips on Gas Tax as Talarico Demands Iran War Condemnation

Texas State Representative James Talarico called on Republican opponent Ken Paxton to condemn the ongoing Iran war and support his plan to suspend the federal gas and diesel taxes. The move comes as gas prices in Texas continue to rise, with regular gas averaging $3.94 per gallon and diesel at $5.90.

Talarico first proposed suspending the gas tax in April, arguing that it would provide relief to Texans affected by the affordability crisis. He has repeatedly called on Paxton to join his call, but the Attorney General has only recently come out against the tax.

Paxton's about-face was met with accusations of hypocrisy from Talarico, who pointed to Paxton's support for anti-oil and gas industry policies. The Attorney General responded by saying that he supports suspending the gas tax permanently, arguing that it would put money directly into drivers' pockets.