Obama Joins Dem Candidates at Austin Taco Joint

Former President Barack Obama made a surprise appearance at a taco restaurant in Austin, Texas, on Tuesday, joining Democratic U.S. Senate nominee James Talarico and gubernatorial candidate Gina Hinojosa to greet patrons and rally support ahead of the general election.

The trio spent about 30 minutes at Taco Joint, near the University of Texas at Austin, moving from booth to booth in an informal display of retail politics. Obama introduced Hinojosa and Talarico to diners, asking one group, "Do you know our outstanding next governor and senator?" The candidates' families joined them, including Talarico's parents, sister and infant niece, Jane. Obama signed a children's book belonging to the niece with the inscription, "To Jane: dream big dreams! Remember to vote!" As they departed with bags of tacos, Obama called out to cheers, "Remember to vote."

Obama ordered a variety of street tacos, including fish, mole and shrimp, paying in cash. Staff recognized Talarico as a regular and prepared his usual potato, egg and cheese breakfast tacos without an order. Hinojosa requested two street tacos without onions. The event drew excitement from a mostly young crowd, who posed for photos and...