President Donald Trump slammed Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico on Wednesday, referring to him as "Talacreepo" and claiming the state representative eats meat only to throw up afterward.

Speaking at a dinner event in the White House Rose Garden, Trump told a crowd of Republican lawmakers that Talarico "has that name for a reason." He continued, "Now he says he loves meat. You know what he does? He eats meat, and he goes outside, and he throws up all over the place."

Trump tied the comments to broader criticism of Talarico as out of touch with Texas values. He noted that failing to eat meat creates problems in the state, echoing long-standing Republican attacks on the Democrat.

Talarico has faced repeated accusations from conservatives of being a vegan, based on a 2022 speech where he described reducing meat consumption as "existential" for climate reasons and announced a "non-meat campaign." His campaign has pushed back, sharing photos and videos of the candidate eating barbecue, steak, chicken, and other meats at events this year.

The remarks came as Trump offered a mixed endorsement of Republican Ken Paxton, Talarico's opponent in the Senate race. Trump praised Paxton's record as attorney general but noted criticisms of his appearance and style.

Talarico, a Texas state representative, won his party's nomination earlier this year. The Senate contest remains a focus for both parties ahead of the midterms.