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◆ Mixed look for TrumpElections / Campaigns

Trump picks Paxton over Cornyn in Texas' GOP Senate primary runoff as early voting is underway

Trump's endorsement could influence the close runoff between Paxton and Cornyn.

Trump picks Paxton over Cornyn in Texas' GOP Senate primary runoff as early voting is underway
Image · KERA

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Outlet credibilityKERA80/100 HIGH
This article1 analysis · Oct 6, 2026

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May 19, 2026
tl;dr

President Donald Trump endorsed Ken Paxton over Sen. John Cornyn in the Texas Republican Senate runoff, with early voting underway. A poll cited in the article suggested the endorsement could affect the close contest.

Community verdict

23 VOTES
How does this story look for
Donald Trump R · President of the United States
● OPEN

People in this story

SWIPE →
Donald Trump
R · President of the United States

President who endorsed Paxton in the Texas Republican Senate runoff

PRIMARY SUBJECT
Ken Paxton
R · TX

Texas attorney general and Republican Senate candidate endorsed by Trump

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

Incumbent senator and Republican Senate candidate in the runoff

Cornyn's version of this story ↗

Democratic Senate nominee mentioned as a prospective general-election opponent

Wesley Hunt
R · TX-38

U.S. representative whose campaign was described as a spoiler in the first round

ALSO MENTIONED  Angela Paxton, Texas state senator, mentioned in campaign ads as Paxton's wife amid their divorce

Part of a bigger story

84 OUTLETS
Trump Endorses Ken Paxton in Texas Senate Runoff

Outlets agree that President Donald Trump endorsed Ken Paxton over John Cornyn in the Texas Republican Senate runoff. Left-leaning outlets often stress that the endorsement could weaken Republicans in November and help Democrat James Talarico. Center outlets report the endorsement and reactions, including Republican concerns about its effects on the race and the party’s prospects. Right-leaning outlets often present Trump’s backing as a boost for Paxton and emphasize his rationale, though some also examine electoral risks or Republican dissent.

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