Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Texas Midterms Heat Up: GOP Showdown Ahead of 2026

2/11/2026

40 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Texas will be a key battleground in the 2026 midterms as Republicans seek U.S. Senator John Cornyn's renomination amid intra-party challenges from Ken Paxton and Wesley Hunt.
Polls indicate Ken Paxton may lead the GOP primary, raising concerns for Cornyn.
Democrats are divided between James Talarico and Jasmine Crockett, with tensions over electability shaping strategy.
The primary is March 3, 2026, with early voting starting February 17, 2026.

History

Historical Context

Ted Cruz's 2016 Senate victory in Texas, where he secured 56% of the vote, highlighted the state's shift towards the Republican Party, which has dominated statewide elections since 1990. As the 2026 midterms approach, John Cornyn faces intra-party challenges, reflecting ongoing tensions within Texas's GOP and the potential for significant changes in the state's political landscape.

1 of 2

Story summary

Texas will be a key battleground in the 2026 midterms as Republicans seek U.S. Senator John Cornyn's renomination amid intra-party challenges from Ken Paxton and Wesley Hunt.
Polls indicate Ken Paxton may lead the GOP primary, raising concerns for Cornyn.
Democrats are divided between James Talarico and Jasmine Crockett, with tensions over electability shaping strategy.
The primary is March 3, 2026, with early voting starting February 17, 2026.

1 / 2