Trump endorses Paxton in Texas, gambling on a challenger with baggage in a crucial race

May 20, 2026

President Donald Trump has endorsed Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton over incumbent Senator John Cornyn in next week's Republican primary runoff, disappointing Senate Republicans who consider Cornyn a loyal colleague. Paxton, a close Trump ally who supported efforts to overturn the 2020 election and attended Trump's New York trial, carries significant political baggage including settled corruption charges, a 2023 impeachment acquittal, and ongoing personal scandals. Trump criticized Cornyn for not endorsing his reelection campaign until January 2024 and for lacking support during difficult times, despite Cornyn's 99% voting alignment with Trump's positions.

Who is affected

Senator John Cornyn (incumbent facing primary challenge)
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton (endorsed challenger)
Senate Republicans, specifically Susan Collins and Lisa Murkowski (dismayed by Trump's decision)
Democrat James Talarico (awaiting the Republican nominee)
Senator Bill Cassidy (lost Louisiana primary to Trump-endorsed opponent)
Congressman Thomas Massie (lost Kentucky primary to Trump-recruited challenger)
Texas Republican primary voters
Texas Democrats hoping to flip the Senate seat

What action is being taken

Early voting is underway in Texas for the Republican primary runoff
Cornyn is campaigning by emphasizing his voting record with Trump and questioning Paxton's viability as a nominee
Paxton is highlighting Cornyn's votes on gun regulation and border enforcement positions during the campaign

Why it matters

This race represents a significant test of Trump's influence within the Republican Party and has major implications for Senate control. Unlike previous Trump-backed challenges against Republicans who broke with him, Cornyn is a party loyalist and former Senate leadership member, suggesting Trump prioritizes personal loyalty over institutional party relationships. Democrats view Paxton's legal troubles and scandals as vulnerabilities that could help them win their first statewide Texas election in 32 years, potentially shifting the Senate balance of power in a state that has been reliably Republican but showed signs of becoming more competitive in recent elections.

What's next

The Republican primary runoff election takes place next Tuesday
The winner will face Democrat James Talarico in November's general election

Read full article from source: BBC