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◆ Mixed look for TrumpElections / Campaigns

Trump endorses Paxton in Texas Republican primary, boosting his challenge to incumbent Sen. Cornyn

Trump’s endorsement of Paxton shifted the dynamics of the Texas Republican Senate runoff.

Trump endorses Paxton in Texas Republican primary, boosting his challenge to incumbent Sen. Cornyn
Image · WGAL

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Outlet credibilityWGAL76/100 HIGH
This article1 analysis · Oct 6, 2026

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May 19, 2026
tl;dr

Donald Trump endorsed Ken Paxton in the Texas Republican Senate runoff, backing his challenge to incumbent John Cornyn ahead of the May 26 vote. The endorsement intensified a costly intraparty contest with potential consequences for Republicans’ efforts to retain the seat.

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27 VOTES
How does this story look for
Donald Trump R · President of the United States
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People in this story

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Donald Trump
R · President of the United States

President who endorsed Paxton in the Republican Senate runoff

PRIMARY SUBJECT
Ken Paxton
R · TX

Texas attorney general and Republican Senate candidate in the runoff

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

Incumbent Texas senator and Republican Senate candidate in the runoff

Cornyn's version of this story ↗

Democratic nominee for the Texas Senate seat

Wesley Hunt
R · TX-38

Texas representative and former Republican primary candidate

Tim Scott
R · SC · SEN

South Carolina senator and chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee

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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