Paxton is the Republican nominee for Senate in Texas, beating Cornyn : NPR
NPR Topics: Politics — 2026-05-26 20:03:00 — www.npr.org
Trump’s Endorsement of Ken Paxton: A Controversial Choice for Texas Republicans
In a surprising turn of events, Texas Republicans have nominated scandal-plagued state Attorney General Ken Paxton for the U.S. Senate, following a significant endorsement from President Trump. This decision effectively unseats incumbent Senator John Cornyn, a long-standing figure in the party’s establishment wing. The primary race, which became the most expensive in Senate history at $100 million, has raised concerns about the future unity of the Republican Party in Texas.
Trump’s Influence and Paxton’s Claims
Polling and political analysts indicated that the race was leaning in Paxton’s favor prior to Trump’s endorsement, which came just as early voting was underway. “Whenever I’m around him, good things happen,” Paxton told supporters in Katy, Texas, the day after receiving Trump’s backing. “Good things happen to me and good things happen for Texas. So I love Donald Trump.”
However, Paxton’s history is marred by legal troubles, including criminal indictments and impeachment proceedings. Despite this, his supporters view these challenges as a testament to his resilience, akin to Trump’s own political battles. They argue that Cornyn’s bipartisan efforts, particularly regarding gun legislation after the Uvalde school shooting, represent a betrayal of Republican values.
Contradictions and Misinformation
Trump’s endorsement of Paxton has reignited discussions about the former president’s history of making misleading statements. For instance, Trump has repeatedly claimed that the 2020 election was stolen, a claim that has been debunked by numerous courts and election officials across the country. This pattern of misinformation has contributed to a polarized political climate, influencing public opinion and voter behavior.
In a recent statement, Cornyn expressed concern over the implications of Paxton’s nomination, stating, “I’ve always believed in the politics of addition, not subtraction… I don’t think we should turn our backs on that.” His remarks highlight the potential risks of alienating moderate voters in the general election.
Experts Weigh In
Political analysts are wary of the divisions within the Republican Party that have surfaced during this primary. Brandon Rottinghaus, a political science professor at the University of Houston, noted, “The stain of the fight has left a lasting problem for unity among Republicans.” He emphasized that if party members either switch their votes to Democrats or choose not to participate, it could pose a significant liability for Republicans in the upcoming elections.
Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for Texas Republicans
As Ken Paxton prepares for a tough fight against Democratic nominee James Talarico in November, the ramifications of Trump’s endorsement and the internal strife within the Republican Party are becoming increasingly apparent. With the potential for a blue wave in Texas, the stakes are high, and the outcome could reshape the political landscape in the state for years to come. The question remains: can the Republican Party unite behind a candidate with such a controversial past, or will the divisions deepen as the election approaches?