An article summarized by The Texas Tribune:
Ken Paxton won Texas’ Republican U.S. Senate primary runoff, defeating longtime Sen. John Cornyn and ending more than four decades of Cornyn’s undefeated political career. Paxton’s victory, boosted by a late endorsement from President Donald Trump, marks a major shift in Texas GOP politics, highlighting the growing power of the MAGA wing over the party’s traditional establishment. The result is seen as both a personal triumph for Paxton and another demonstration of Trump’s continued influence inside the Republican Party.
The race exposed a deep divide within Texas Republicans. Cornyn, a longtime conservative senator and former Senate GOP leader, was backed by Republican leadership and Washington allies who questioned Paxton’s electability due to his history of scandals, including past corruption allegations, impeachment, and legal controversies. Despite Cornyn’s fundraising advantage and heavy outside spending, Paxton’s loyal MAGA base, strong ties to Trump, and last-minute presidential endorsement helped propel him to victory in a low-turnout runoff environment.
Paxton now advances to a general election showdown against Democratic state Rep. James Talarico, in what could become one of the most closely watched Senate races in the country. Democrats view Paxton as a potentially vulnerable nominee because of his controversies, while Republicans face the challenge of reuniting after a bitter primary battle. The outcome could carry national implications for Senate control, Trump’s political movement, and the future direction of the Republican Party in Texas and Washington.
