Texas Senate Primary Results: Paxton Defeats Cornyn in Upset Victory
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton secured the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate, defeating incumbent Sen. John Cornyn. President Donald Trump endorsed Paxton, praising him as a "true MAGA warrior." Paxton's victory marks the first time a Republican senator from Texas lost the party's nomination for reelection. Supporters at Paxton's election night party celebrated his win, crediting Trump for his endorsement.
In contrast, Cornyn conceded the race with a brief speech to reporters. Despite his loss, Cornyn pledged his support for Paxton in the general election. Cornyn's criticism of Trump in the past, including questioning his border wall plan, may have contributed to his defeat. The Senate GOP leaders had backed Cornyn as the stronger candidate for the general election against Democratic nominee state Rep. James Talarico.
Democrats view Talarico as a potential opportunity to win a statewide race in Texas, a state they hope to flip in the midterms. Paxton acknowledged that he would be the Democrats' top target in November. Talarico's campaign highlighted Paxton's vulnerabilities, including an FBI investigation and impeachment for corruption. The runoffs also determined Democratic U.S. House nominees in districts in Dallas and Houston.
The primary race between Paxton and Cornyn was long and costly, with Cornyn leading in the initial primary but failing to secure a majority. Cornyn's campaign focused on attacking Paxton over ethical and personal issues, including allegations from a 2023 impeachment trial. Trump's endorsement of Paxton came after early voting began, influencing some voters' decisions. Some voters saw Cornyn as the lesser of two evils, while others believed Paxton had a better chance against Talarico.
Trump's snub of Cornyn and endorsement of Paxton added to the tension in the race. Cornyn defended his support for Trump's agenda, despite the president's criticism. Some GOP strategists expressed concerns about a Paxton nomination costing more money in the fall campaign. Democrats need to gain four seats to take the Senate majority, making the Texas race crucial.
In the Democratic U.S. House primaries, Rep. Christian Menefee defeated Rep. Al Green in Texas' 18th District, while former Rep. Colin Allred won against Rep. Julie Johnson in the 33rd District. Near San Antonio, Johnny Garcia secured the Democratic nomination for Texas' 35th District. The general election matchups in these districts will be closely watched as Democrats aim to make gains in Texas.