Story perspectives

High Stakes in Texas Senate Primary: $122M Race Ahead

3/2/2026

Center

Cornyn Fights Re-election

The Texas U.S. Senate Republican primary is highly competitive.
Ad spending in the race exceeds $122 million.
John Cornyn (R-Texas), U.S. Senator, seeks a fifth term against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and Congressman Wesley Hunt.
In the Democratic primary, State Representative James Talarico (D-Texas) and Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) are tied in polls.
Analysts predict a runoff between Cornyn and Paxton, following early voting that shows higher turnout for Democrats.

Right

Hunt Connects with Voters

Rep. Wesley Hunt (R-TX) campaigns across Texas, highlighting grassroots outreach while noting he has missed 69 votes.
He says his absence lets him connect with voters in over 45 counties.
Senator John Cornyn mocks Hunt's attendance record.
Supporters describe Hunt as honest and patriotic.
Analysts expect a March 3 runoff between Hunt and Cornyn, as Hunt's military background resonates amid party tensions.

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Cornyn Fights Re-election

The Texas U.S. Senate Republican primary is highly competitive.
Ad spending in the race exceeds $122 million.
John Cornyn (R-Texas), U.S. Senator, seeks a fifth term against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and Congressman Wesley Hunt.
In the Democratic primary, State Representative James Talarico (D-Texas) and Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) are tied in polls.
Analysts predict a runoff between Cornyn and Paxton, following early voting that shows higher turnout for Democrats.

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