The Texas Republican Senate primary is heading to a May 26 runoff between incumbent Senator John Cornyn and Attorney General Ken Paxton, as neither candidate secured over 50% of the vote.
This contentious race has already seen record-breaking spending, with over $110 million poured into television ads. The contest is marked by intense personal attacks, with Cornyn criticizing Paxton's character and legal troubles, including a 2023 impeachment by the Texas House and prior securities fraud charges.
Paxton, a close ally of former President Trump, counters by accusing Cornyn of attempting to "steal the election" with significant funding, while emphasizing his popular support. Despite the GOP's Senate campaign arm investing millions in Cornyn, former President Trump has notably withheld an endorsement in this primary, though a survey indicates his backing significantly sways 55% of Republican voters.
The runoff outcome will be a key indicator of the Republican Party's direction in Texas and the broader influence of Trump's political capital.
White House officials aren’t all singing from the same hymnbook as they fan out and seek to explain “Operation Epic Fury.” Read more in today’s WSJ Politics Newsletter:(current)
Originally reported as: “White House officials aren’t all singing from the same hymnbook as they fan out and seek to explain “Operation Epic Fury.” Read more in today’s WSJ Politics Newsletter:”