Trump’s Endorsement Shakes Up Texas GOP Senate Primary

On Tuesday, Texas Republicans will choose a nominee for the U.S. Senate in a heated runoff election. The race concludes a prolonged and costly primary. President Donald Trump has recently endorsed state Attorney General Ken Paxton, giving him an advantage over incumbent Sen. John Cornyn. Cornyn faces the risk of becoming the first Texas Republican senator to lose a primary nomination.

Cornyn’s campaign, along with aligned groups, spent about $90 million in ads targeting Paxton. Trump’s support boosts Paxton’s bid, aligning with Trump’s pattern of supporting challengers to incumbents he views as disloyal. Recent successful endorsements in Louisiana, Kentucky, and Indiana underline Trump’s ongoing influence among primary voters. Trump’s backing was quickly promoted by Paxton’s campaign and a pro-Paxton super PAC.

“I know who gets to choose our senators, and it’s the people of Texas,” Cornyn stated, acknowledging the impact of Trump’s intervention but remaining defiant.

The eventual winner will compete against Democratic state Representative James Talarico in November. Texas Democrats will also determine U.S. House nominees in crucial districts.

Throughout a long and contentious primary, Cornyn led the initial vote but failed to secure a majority. His campaign has focused largely on attacking Paxton over ethical issues. Paxton was previously acquitted in a 2023 impeachment trial relating to personal matters. Despite Cornyn’s alliances heavily outspending Paxton’s backers since March, the race remains tight.

Initially, Trump promised to endorse right after the primary, but he waited until early voting started. In his endorsement, Trump praised Paxton as a “Fighter” and criticized Cornyn’s loyalty.

Recent attack ads by pro-Cornyn groups criticized the handling of specific cases by the attorney general’s office. Cornyn argues that Paxton’s issues could hurt the general election chances against Talarico. Conversely, Paxton’s backers criticize Cornyn’s mixed relationship with Trump.

Some GOP strategists believe that the race’s negative tone might decrease voter turnout. With the election occurring shortly after Memorial Day, turnout dynamics could favor Paxton, who appeals to Trump’s more fervent supporters.

“The defining battle lines are based around hyper-negative messaging,” remarked Texas Republican strategist Tyler Norris, signaling uncertain voter turnout.

Trump’s influence extends beyond Texas. Last week, he celebrated the defeat of Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky, criticizing him as “the worst congressman” after supporting challenger Ed Gallrein. Trump has labeled various other Republicans unsupportive, including Sen. Bill Cassidy of Louisiana.

Cornyn suggested that Trump’s critical stance resulted from misinformation about his support for Trump’s agenda. GOP leaders backed Cornyn, arguing that he would perform stronger in a general election.

Among Texas Democrats, Rep. Christian Menefee and Rep. Al Green compete for the nomination in the 18th District, impacted by recent district redrawing. The new map has caused a contest between incumbents.

Former Rep. Colin Allred and U.S. Rep. Julie Johnson vie for the 33rd District seat near Dallas. In San Antonio’s 35th District, Democratic leaders aim to prevent candidate Maureen Galindo, known for past controversial statements, from winning the runoff against Johnny Garcia. Democrats perceive this district as potentially winnable despite Republican-favored redistricting.

The political landscape in Texas remains tumultuous, as multiple races and endorsements shape this election cycle.