AUSTIN — Former President Barack Obama made a surprise stop at a popular taco shop near the University of Texas campus Tuesday, introducing Democratic nominees James Talarico and Gina Hinojosa to awestruck patrons as the state’s next senator and governor.
The unannounced visit took place May 12 at Taco Joint on San Jacinto Boulevard. Obama, flanked by the two Austin-area state representatives, went booth to booth greeting families, posing for photos and urging people to vote. He referred to Talarico, the Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate, and Hinojosa, the Democratic nominee for governor, as “our outstanding next governor and senator.”
The quick lunchtime appearance was not a formal endorsement but served as a high-profile show of support for the candidates as they head into the November 2026 midterm elections in a state that has long leaned Republican. Obama’s visit comes as Democrats hope to build momentum and energize voters in key races that could help flip seats.
Talarico and Hinojosa are both longtime state lawmakers from the Austin area. Talarico is challenging for the U.S. Senate seat, while Hinojosa is seeking the governorship. The former president’s presence at the casual taco spot drew cheers from diners and quickly spread on social media, highlighting the campaign energy building ahead of the general election.
Obama paid in cash for a sampling of street tacos, fish, mole and shrimp tacos before heading out with the candidates, tacos in hand. The stop underscored efforts by national Democrats to boost a new generation of Texas leaders in competitive statewide contests.
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The unannounced visit took place May 12 at Taco Joint on San Jacinto Boulevard.
The unannounced visit took place May 12 at Taco Joint on San Jacinto Boulevard.
