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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 endorsed Paxton, a move the article describes as potentially consequential in the close runoff.

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

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Outlet credibilityTexas Public Radio79/100 HIGH
This article1 analysis · Oct 6, 2026

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Texas Public Radiooriginal publisher not identified
May 19, 2026
tl;dr

Donald Trump endorsed Ken Paxton over John Cornyn in Texas’ Republican Senate primary runoff, which was already underway. The endorsement could reshape a close contest and deepen divisions before the general election.

Community verdict

27 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
John Cornyn
R · TX · SEN

Texas senator and Republican Senate candidate 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 Senate candidate and general-election opponent

Wesley Hunt
R · TX-38

U.S. representative who placed third in the first round of the Republican primary

ALSO MENTIONED  Angela Paxton, Texas state senator and Ken Paxton’s wife

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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