Trump Backs Extremist Ken Paxton Over Establishment Cornyn in Texas Senate Primary
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In a move that further radicalizes the Republican Party, former President Donald Trump has thrown his support behind Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, known for his far-right stances and legal scandals, over incumbent Senator John Cornyn in the upcoming primary runoff.
Former President Donald Trump has endorsed Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, a figure notorious for his extreme MAGA loyalty and attacks on democracy, in the Republican primary runoff for the U.S. Senate seat. This challenge to incumbent Senator John Cornyn underscores the GOP's ongoing shift toward authoritarianism and away from traditional conservatism. The endorsement was announced on Tuesday, just as early voting began for the May 26 runoff election.
"Ken is a true MAGA Warrior who has ALWAYS delivered for Texas, and will continue to do so in the United States Senate," Trump proclaimed on his social media platform, Truth Social, further cementing his grip on the party.
Paxton, who has served as attorney general since 2015, has been a relentless supporter of Trump’s anti-democratic agenda. He notoriously filed a baseless lawsuit to overturn the 2020 presidential election results and spoke at the rally that incited the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack. Despite facing serious legal challenges, including a 2023 impeachment trial where he was acquitted on technicalities, Paxton has managed to cling to power, highlighting the GOP's disregard for accountability.
Cornyn, a four-term senator, has the backing of Senate GOP leadership, who argue he is a more electable candidate for the general election. Cornyn's campaign has rightfully pointed out Paxton's legal troubles, warning that his extremism and scandals could endanger Republican control of the seat.
The winner will face Democratic nominee James Talarico, a progressive state legislator from Austin, in the November general election. Encouragingly, Talarico has led both Republican candidates in recent polling and boasts a significant fundraising advantage, offering hope for a shift toward sanity in Texas politics.
Early voting for the runoff ends Friday, with Election Day scheduled for May 26.