Trump Endorses Ken Paxton in Texas Senate Primary Runoff

President Donald Trump has endorsed Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in the Republican primary runoff for the U.S. Senate seat, challenging incumbent Senator John Cornyn. The endorsement was announced on Tuesday, just after early voting commenced 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 stated on Truth Social.

Paxton, who has served as attorney general since 2015, has been a steadfast supporter of Trump's agenda. He previously filed a lawsuit seeking to overturn the 2020 presidential election results and spoke at the rally preceding the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack. Despite facing legal challenges, including a 2023 impeachment trial where he was acquitted, Paxton has maintained his political standing.

Cornyn, a four-term senator, has received backing from Senate GOP leadership, who argue that he is a stronger candidate for the general election. Cornyn's campaign has highlighted Paxton's legal issues, suggesting they could jeopardize Republican control of the seat.

The winner of the runoff will face Democratic nominee James Talarico, a state legislator from Austin, in the November general election. Talarico has led both Republican candidates in recent polling and holds a significant fundraising advantage.

Early voting for the runoff ends Friday, with Election Day scheduled for May 26.