Moments after President Donald Trump announced his choice in the Texas Senate race, the atmosphere among Senate Republicans transformed. Several members were on their way to a confidential lunch for discussions on the paused immigration funding package and to outline the upcoming challenges in the Senate. Trump’s decision to endorse Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton over incumbent Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, left many lawmakers visibly stunned. Concerns arose that this move might endanger a long-held Republican seat.
Trump’s Choice Stirs Controversy
The race pits Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in a primary runoff. Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, expressed her dissatisfaction, stating, “I think that this puts that seat in jeopardy.” She questioned how losing a Republican foothold like Texas strengthens the president’s position. The winner of the runoff will face Texas state Rep. James Talarico, who has gained support from prominent Democrats, including former President Barack Obama.
A History of Republican Dominance
Historically, Texas has been a Republican stronghold, not electing a Democrat to the Senate since 1988. Despite this, many Republicans believed Cornyn was a safer choice. Sen. Steve Daines, R-Mont., who led the Senate GOP’s campaign efforts in 2024, continued to back Cornyn. Daines emphasized that though he believes Texas will remain Republican, Cornyn provided more security.
Cornyn has criticized Paxton for the controversies surrounding him, such as his impeachment and alleged affair. He warned that Paxton might be a liability for the GOP in the upcoming elections. Cornyn stated, “It is now time for Texas Republican voters to decide if they want a strong nominee to help our GOP candidates or a weak nominee who jeopardizes everything we care about.”
Paxton’s Confidence
Ken Paxton’s strategist, Nick Maddux, argued that Paxton is a tested winner, having secured victories in three statewide elections. Maddux critiqued Cornyn for “accomplishing nothing” in his decades-long tenure and expressed confidence in Paxton’s nomination.
Paxton’s campaign warned against Talarico, calling him “the most radical Democrat” to run in Texas. They stressed the need for Republican unity to counter Talarico’s “extremist views.”
Trump’s Endorsement Impact
Trump’s endorsement of Paxton created waves among Senate Republicans. Many members remained supportive of Cornyn, despite acknowledging the risks Paxton might bring. Sen. Bill Cassidy’s recent primary loss to another Trump-backed candidate, Rep. Julia Letlow, underscored the influence of Trump’s endorsements.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., noted his efforts to sway Trump towards Cornyn. Although this attempt failed, Thune asserted his ongoing support for Cornyn, declaring him a “principled conservative” and effective senator for Texas.
As Election Day dawns, Cornyn and Paxton stand ready for their final showdown in this political battle.
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