Ken Paxton Gains Momentum in Texas Senate Primary

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has received a significant endorsement from Turning Point Action, a conservative nonprofit affiliated with Turning Point USA, as he seeks to unseat incumbent Senator John Cornyn in the upcoming Republican primary. Paxton expressed his gratitude for the endorsement on X, stating, “The movement that Charlie Kirk built has inspired millions, and I’m proud to be standing alongside Turning Point Action in carrying on the fight to save this country and defend our freedoms.” This endorsement comes amid increasing pressure on former President Donald Trump to publicly support a candidate in the Texas GOP primary, which is scheduled for March.

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Recent polling data from the University of Houston indicates that Paxton is leading the Republican primary race with 38% of likely voters supporting him, compared to 31% for Cornyn and 17% for Representative Wesley Hunt. The poll, conducted in late January, also revealed that Paxton enjoys a favorable opinion from 72% of likely Republican primary voters, while Cornyn's favorability stands at 61%. Paxton has highlighted his polling advantage, asserting that he is outperforming Cornyn in both the primary and potential general election scenarios.

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The stakes are high for the Republican Party in Texas, as senior party members express concerns about the potential costs associated with defending the Senate seat if Paxton becomes the nominee. Cornyn has warned that a nomination of Paxton could jeopardize the seat, stating, “I think if Republicans nominate the attorney general, I think they absolutely do” when asked about the risk of Democrats winning the seat. Estimates suggest that defending the seat could require upwards of $200 million, funds that could be redirected to other critical races in states like Georgia, Michigan, and New Hampshire.

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On the Democratic side, the primary features U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett and Texas State Representative James Talarico, both vying for their party's nomination. The outcome of the Republican primary could significantly influence the dynamics of the general election, particularly if Paxton, who has faced various controversies, secures the nomination.

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Critics within the GOP have voiced concerns regarding Paxton's viability as a candidate, particularly given his history of scandals. Cornyn's attempts to align himself with Trump, despite previous criticisms, reflect a strategic effort to solidify support within the party as the primary approaches.

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• “The movement that Charlie Kirk built has inspired millions, and I’m proud to be standing alongside Turning Point Action in carrying on the fight to save this country and defend our freedoms,” — Ken Paxton, Texas Attorney General

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• “I think if Republicans nominate the attorney general, I think they absolutely do,” — John Cornyn, U.S. Senator

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As the primary date approaches, the Republican race in Texas is shaping up to be a contentious battle, with significant implications for both parties in the upcoming general election.

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