Trump Endorses Ken Paxton in Texas Senate Runoff Against Incumbent John Cornyn

President Donald Trump has endorsed Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in the Republican primary runoff for the U.S. Senate, intensifying Paxton's challenge against incumbent Senator John Cornyn. The runoff is scheduled for May 26, with early voting already underway.

"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 social media.

Paxton and Cornyn advanced to the runoff after neither secured a majority in the March 3 primary. Cornyn received approximately 42% of the vote, while Paxton garnered nearly 41%, a margin of about 26,000 votes.

Trump's endorsement comes despite Senate Republicans' preference for Cornyn, whom they view as a stronger candidate against Democratic nominee James Talarico in the general election. Senate Majority Leader John Thune previously expressed confidence in Cornyn's position to "win the runoff."

Cornyn responded to the endorsement by emphasizing his collaboration with the president and urging Texas Republicans to support him in the runoff. He highlighted the importance of selecting a strong nominee to aid GOP candidates down the ballot and to defeat Talarico in November.

The endorsement underscores the ongoing intra-party dynamics within the GOP, as Trump continues to influence key races by supporting candidates aligned with his agenda.