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◆ Mixed look for TrumpElections / Campaigns

Trump flexes endorsement power for Ken Paxton after ousting Cassidy

Trump endorsed Paxton and presented the choice as part of his broader effort to reward aligned candidates and influence Republican primaries.

Trump flexes endorsement power for Ken Paxton after ousting Cassidy
Image · CNBC

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This article1 analysis · Oct 6, 2026
CNBC
May 19, 2026
tl;dr

Donald Trump endorsed Ken Paxton in Texas’s Republican Senate runoff against John Cornyn, giving Paxton a boost and sharpening debate over the general-election prospects of the eventual nominee. The runoff is scheduled for May 26, with the winner set to face Democrat James Talarico.

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Donald Trump R · President of the United States
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Donald Trump
R · President of the United States

President who endorsed Paxton in the Texas Republican Senate runoff

PRIMARY SUBJECT
John Cornyn
R · TX · SEN

Texas senator and Republican Senate candidate facing Paxton in the runoff

Cornyn's version of this story ↗
Ken Paxton
R · TX

Texas attorney general and Republican Senate candidate endorsed by Trump

Paxton's version of this story ↗

Democratic nominee for the Texas Senate seat

Lindsey Graham
Former U.S. Senator (R-SC)

South Carolina senator commenting on the effect of Trump’s endorsement

Thomas Massie
R · KY-4

Kentucky representative facing Republican challenger Ed Gallrein

Lisa Murkowski
R · AK · SEN

Alaska senator criticizing Trump’s choice to endorse Paxton over Cornyn

Bill Cassidy
R · LA · SEN

Louisiana senator mentioned in connection with an earlier Republican primary

J.D. Vance
Vice President of the United States

Vice President commenting on the endorsement at a White House briefing

Republican candidate challenging Thomas Massie in Kentucky

Part of a bigger story

34 OUTLETS
Trump Endorses Ken Paxton in Texas Senate Republican Runoff

Outlets agree that President Donald Trump endorsed Ken Paxton over Sen. John Cornyn in the Texas Republican Senate runoff ahead of the May 26 contest. Left-leaning outlets emphasize Paxton’s controversies and present the endorsement as a possible opening for Democrats. Center outlets focus on how Trump’s choice affects the runoff, Republican strategy and November prospects. Right-leaning outlets foreground Trump’s support for Paxton, including his praise of Paxton’s loyalty and alignment with his agenda.

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