Trump Doubles Down on Extremism: Endorses Ken Paxton Over Cornyn in Texas GOP Senate Runoff
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Former President Donald Trump has thrown his support behind controversial Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, snubbing incumbent Senator John Cornyn in the Republican primary runoff—a move that signals the GOP’s continued slide into MAGA extremism.
Former President Donald Trump has once again chosen to back the most reactionary elements of the Republican Party, endorsing Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in the GOP primary runoff for the U.S. Senate, and turning his back on incumbent Senator John Cornyn. Trump lavished praise on Paxton, calling him a 'true MAGA Warrior' who has 'ALWAYS delivered for Texas, and will continue to do so in the United States Senate.' This endorsement comes despite Paxton’s long record of legal and ethical controversies, reflecting Trump’s ongoing preference for loyalists over integrity.
Paxton, who has faced multiple indictments and investigations, eagerly welcomed the endorsement, declaring his honor to have Trump’s 'COMPLETE AND TOTAL ENDORSEMENT.' The embrace of Paxton by Trump underscores the GOP’s willingness to overlook corruption and scandal in favor of hardline MAGA loyalty.
Cornyn, a more traditional conservative, attempted to defend his record by highlighting his unwavering support for Trump, stating, 'I have worked closely with President Trump through both of his Presidential terms and voted with him more than 99% of the time. He has consistently called me a friend in this race.' Yet, even this record of near-total alignment with Trump was not enough to secure the former president’s backing, revealing the ever-shifting loyalty tests within the Republican Party.
The runoff election, set for May 26, follows a primary where neither candidate secured a majority. Recent polls show a tight race, with Paxton holding a narrow lead, suggesting that the GOP base remains enthralled by Trump’s brand of politics, regardless of the candidate’s record.
The winner will face Democratic nominee James Talarico in the general election. Polls indicate a competitive race, with Talarico either leading or within the margin of error against both Republican contenders, offering hope for those seeking to break the GOP’s grip on Texas.
Trump’s endorsement of Paxton has alarmed some Republican leaders, who see Cornyn as a more electable and less scandal-plagued candidate. Nevertheless, the party’s leadership appears increasingly powerless to resist the MAGA takeover, even at the risk of alienating moderate voters and jeopardizing their chances in November.