Ken Paxton defeats Sen. John Cornyn in Texas Republican Senate primary
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton won the Republican primary runoff against Sen. John Cornyn on Tuesday. President Trump endorsed Paxton the week before the vote.
nbcnews.comTexas Attorney General Ken Paxton defeated Sen. John Cornyn in the Republican Senate primary runoff on Tuesday, according to NBC News. Cornyn had served 24 years in the Senate. His term ends in January.
Trump endorsement President Trump endorsed Paxton last week.
He stated that he had "worked well" with Cornyn but added that Cornyn "was not supportive of me when times were tough." Cornyn had posted on X a photo of himself with President Trump and highlighted votes in favor of major Trump-backed legislation.
Cornyn record Cornyn voted to acquit President Trump during the 2021 impeachment proceedings. He had earlier criticized the Capitol riot and said Trump should not run again in 2024. Cornyn later endorsed Trump during the 2024 primaries. He had also served as chair of the National Republican Senatorial Committee and as Senate GOP whip.
Primary context Paxton will face the Democratic nominee in November.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said the outcome improves Democratic chances in Texas.
Key Facts
Story Timeline
3 events- May 26, 2026
Ken Paxton wins Texas Republican Senate primary runoff against Sen. John Cornyn.
1 source@NBCNews - May 2026
President Trump endorses Ken Paxton days before the runoff vote.
1 source@NBCNews - March 2026
Sen. John Cornyn advances to runoff after primary election.
1 source@NBCNews
Potential Impact
- 01
Paxton will represent Republicans in the November general election for the Senate seat.
- 02
Cornyn will leave the Senate when his term ends in January.
Transparency Panel
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