In a new showdown for the GOP, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has set the stage for a gripping showdown against fellow Republican, Senator John Cornyn, in the 2026 Texas Senate race, leading 53% to 28%, according to a poll.
See the tweet below!
The bold move by Paxton, a staunch conservative known for fiercely defending Trump’s America First agenda, draws attention to the ideological rift within the Texas GOP, marking it as a race no patriot can afford to ignore.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced his challenge against John Cornyn, accusing him of abandoning the America First movement.
This challenge signifies a shift towards more hardline conservative values as Paxton, despite his legal controversies, garners considerable grassroots support among Texas Republicans.
Polls show he resonates with voters seeking a candidate more steadfast in supporting Trump’s policies.
A recent poll by Fabrizio, Lee and Associates indicates Paxton leading Cornyn with 53% compared to Cornyn’s 28% among potential primary voters.
These numbers emphasize the support Paxton has from Texas Republicans who prioritize allegiance to Trump’s agenda.
In contrast, Cornyn’s campaign focuses on his long tenure and efforts in building conservative majorities in Washington, alongside highlighting his frequent voting alignment with Trump.
Ken Paxton, having announced his candidacy through a public declaration, emphasized his commitment to combating what he terms the “D.C. establishment.”
By calling out Cornyn’s decades-long presence in Washington, Paxton captures the sentiment of Texans eager for fresh representation that champions unyielding conservative values.
Paxton criticizes Cornyn, citing his tenure as an example of disconnect with the state’s more fervent Republican base.
“Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has told Newsweek he is launching a primary challenge to fellow Republican and incumbent Senator John Cornyn, accusing him of ‘turning his back on President Trump and the America First agenda,’” Newsweek reports.
Cornyn remains firm, announcing his re-election bid with support from Senate Majority Leader John Thune, who praises him as a crucial figure in GOP victories.
As Cornyn positions himself as a moderate appealing to diverse Texan voters, the competition intensifies.
Meanwhile, other players like Democrat Colin Allred contemplate entering the race, which could further sway voter dynamics.
Ken Paxton’s campaign strategy, concentrating on energizing conservative Republicans through aggressive advocacy for Trumpism, stands on solid ground among Texans opposing what they perceive as establishment politics.
As the Texas GOP primary looms, both Paxton and Cornyn are expected to seek Trump’s endorsement, leveraging their conservative credentials to win over the critical MAGA voting bloc.
Breaking: Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced Tuesday he will challenge U.S. Sen. John Cornyn in next year’s midterm elections.https://t.co/bI0qVaLhDF
— Texas Tribune (@TexasTribune) April 8, 2025
