Ken Paxton Leads Texas Senate Runoff as Trump Endorses Him

President Donald Trump endorsed Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton for the U.S. Senate, propelling him ahead of incumbent Senator John Cornyn in the GOP runoff election. A Quantus Insights poll released on the eve of the May 26 runoff showed Paxton at 52.7% versus Cornyn’s 43.4%, with a small share undecided. Trump’s backing was highlighted in campaign messaging, while Cornyn’s team declined comment.

The race has sparked internal GOP tension. Analyst Scott MacFarlane warned that the party could face a “deflated” outlook after Trump’s meddling, noting the need for substantial funding to defend competitive House seats on the southern border. North Carolina Senator Thom Tillis publicly labeled Paxton “ethically‑challenged” and “a failure,” calling him an “empty suit” unfit for Congress.

Paxton’s campaign also emphasizes his record on “Make America Healthy Again” issues, including investigations into pesticide use on organic produce and chemical exposures in consumer goods. Some Republican leaders, such as Sen. John Thune, continue to support Cornyn despite Trump’s endorsement.

Political analysts suggest the runoff’s outcome could shape the GOP’s direction in a pivotal Sun Belt state and influence the November general election, where Democrat James Talarico will contest the seat. Concerns have been raised that a Paxton nomination might depress Republican down‑ballot performance, offering Democrats a better chance to flip Texas seats.