Story perspectives

Texas Primary Runoffs: Cornyn vs. Paxton, Uncertain House Race

3/5/2026

Center

Texas Primary Runoffs

Texas will hold primary runoff elections on May 26, 2026, with early voting May 18, 2026.
John Cornyn (R-TX) and Ken Paxton (R-TX) will compete for the Senate nomination after neither secured over 50% of the vote.
In U.S. House District 19, Tom Sell leads with 40.4%, and second place remains uncertain.
Kyle Rable (D) is the Democratic candidate running unopposed and seeks to challenge the district's Republican stronghold.

Right

Menefee vs. Green Runoff

A runoff for Texas' 18th Congressional District will occur after neither candidate won a majority, with Menefee at 46% and Green at 44.2%.
Rep. Al Green, a veteran congressman since 2005, shifted to the 18th District because of redistricting.
Green has drawn attention for impeachment efforts against U.S. President Donald Trump.
Rep. Christian Menefee, a former lawyer, announced his candidacy to advance Democratic interests, with runoff on May 26, 2026.

History

Historical Context

The Voting Rights Act of 1965 marked a pivotal moment in U.S. history, prohibiting racial discrimination in voting and resulting in over 1 million African Americans registered in the South by 1966. As Texas prepares for its 2026 primary runoff elections, candidates like John Cornyn and Al Green navigate a political landscape shaped by these historical reforms, influencing current party dynamics and voter engagement.

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Texas Primary Runoffs

Texas will hold primary runoff elections on May 26, 2026, with early voting May 18, 2026.
John Cornyn (R-TX) and Ken Paxton (R-TX) will compete for the Senate nomination after neither secured over 50% of the vote.
In U.S. House District 19, Tom Sell leads with 40.4%, and second place remains uncertain.
Kyle Rable (D) is the Democratic candidate running unopposed and seeks to challenge the district's Republican stronghold.

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