Texas Democratic Senate nominee James Talarico responded Tuesday to controversial comments made by Brooks Potteiger, a pastor who serves as a spiritual adviser to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

Potteiger made remarks that included the phrase "We want him crucified with Christ" in reference to Talarico, which the Democratic candidate interpreted as praying for his death. Potteiger later clarified that he was calling for Talarico's religious conversion.

Talarico, a state representative and Presbyterian seminarian, responded on social media platform X, writing: "Jesus loves. Christian Nationalism kills. You may pray for my death, Pastor, but I still love you. I love you more than you could ever hate me."

The exchange highlights ongoing tensions between progressive Democrats and conservative religious figures during the current political cycle. Talarico has positioned himself as a critic of what he terms "Christian nationalism" while emphasizing his own religious background.

Talarico is currently running for the U.S. Senate seat from Texas. The controversy emerged as part of broader scrutiny surrounding Hegseth's confirmation process and his close associates.