Paxton defeats Cornyn in Texas primary
Trump-backed victory reshapes key Senate race in Texas
Ken Paxton defeated four-term Senator John Cornyn in the Republican Senate primary in Texas, securing the party’s nomination after winning in the state’s westernmost counties. Paxton, 63, who recently received former President Donald Trump’s endorsement, called out Democrats as likely to target him in November and framed the race as a fight to keep Texas from the “radical left.” The victory forced Cornyn, 74, into early retirement; Cornyn conceded and pledged to support the Republican ticket.
Paxton’s candidacy has been marked by long-running legal and ethical controversies, including an impeachment by the Texas House, a felony fraud indictment, reports to the FBI by top aides, and a public divorce; he denies wrongdoing. Despite those issues, many conservative voters cited loyalty to Trump and alignment with his policies as decisive factors. Supporters at election events praised Paxton as a staunch conservative fighter whose Trump backing galvanized voters.
Paxton will face Democratic state Representative James Talarico, 37, in a contest that could influence control of the U.S. Senate; Democrats must net four seats to win a majority in the chamber currently held 53–47 by Republicans. Talarico, a fundraiser who appeals to independents and moderates, has been framed by Paxton’s backers as an alternative that could attract broader support. Republican strategists had warned that a Paxton nomination could create a vulnerability in Texas and force Republicans to divert substantial funds to hold the seat.
The result highlights continuing tensions between the party’s establishment and the Trump-aligned populist wing, and signals the enduring influence of Trump endorsements in Republican primaries. National Republicans now face the prospect of uniting behind a nominee long opposed by party leadership while preparing for what is expected to be an expensive, high-stakes general election campaign in a pivotal state.
