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Texas GOP Senate Primary Heats Up Amid Early Voting

2/28/2026

29 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Texas Republican Senate primary intensifies as incumbent John Cornyn (R-TX) faces Ken Paxton (R-TX) and Rep. Wesley Hunt (R-TX).
U.S. President Donald Trump visited Corpus Christi and did not endorse any candidate while acknowledging all three during his rally.
Paxton attended the State of the Union as Rep. Troy Nehls's guest and criticized Cornyn's tenure.
Early voting is underway and a runoff is expected.

History

Historical Context

The 2018 Texas Senate election saw incumbent Ted Cruz narrowly defeat Democrat Beto O'Rourke, securing 51% of the vote. This closely contested race highlighted the shifting political landscape in Texas, where Republicans have dominated statewide elections since 1994. The primary reflects ongoing divisions within the Texas GOP, as factions vie for influence ahead of the critical 2024 elections.

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Story summary

The Texas Republican Senate primary intensifies as incumbent John Cornyn (R-TX) faces Ken Paxton (R-TX) and Rep. Wesley Hunt (R-TX).
U.S. President Donald Trump visited Corpus Christi and did not endorse any candidate while acknowledging all three during his rally.
Paxton attended the State of the Union as Rep. Troy Nehls's guest and criticized Cornyn's tenure.
Early voting is underway and a runoff is expected.

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