On September 10, 2026, Jimmy Kimmel interviewed Senate candidate James Talarico. Talarico is a seminary student in the Presbyterian Church (USA) and his message has resonated with a broad audience. Two things to note from this interview:
First, his message should be highly familiar to preaching in mainline Protestant churches. While conservative Christians have attacked his faith, his message is common in pulpits across the American mainline. If you appreciate Talarico’s approach to Christianity, find your way to a Presbyterian, Episcopal, Methodist, Lutheran, UCC, or Disciples of Christ congregation!
Second, preachers should take note of how his message resonates with the general public. The California audience cheered on his faith-based message and his vision appeals to many Americans who are familiar with Jesus even if they are not yet believer.
Some specifics to note:
- Jimmy Kimmel opens with the familiar bumper sticker, “What Would Jesus Do?”
- Talarico quotes Rev. Raphael Warnock on Jesus being “the most famous victim of identity theft.”
- He goes on to say that our neighbor “bears the divine image” and in them “we glimpse the face of God.”
- His main appeal to Scripture is Matthew 25 and also Jesus turning tables in the Temple. He describes his approach as an attempt to “love my neighbor through public policy.”
- In response to his critics, who say that he disrespects Jesus, Talarico responds, “What disrespects Jesus? Kicking the sick off their healthcare to give tax cuts to billionaires.”
Most of the interview is worth the time to listen. Pay attention to how his messaging appeals to a general audience. If you like his message, find your way to a mainline Protestant church to find like-minded Christians!