Full Breakdown
Texas Attorney General Primary Heads to Runoff: Chip Roy vs. Mayes Middleton
3/5/2026, 10:12:09 AM
Overview of the Republican Primary Contest
The Republican primary for Texas attorney general has resulted in a runoff between Representative Chip Roy and State Senator Mayes Middleton, following a March 3 vote that did not yield a clear winner. The runoff is scheduled for May 26, 2026. This election is significant as it seeks to fill the position currently held by Ken Paxton, who is running for the U.S. Senate. The attorney general's office has become a pivotal platform for advancing conservative policies at both state and national levels.
Candidates and Campaign Dynamics
Chip Roy, a member of the conservative House Freedom Caucus, entered the race as the frontrunner but finished second to Middleton, who leveraged substantial personal funds to mount an aggressive campaign. Roy has a history of contentious relationships with GOP leadership and has been critical of former President Donald Trump on various occasions. In contrast, Middleton, an oil and gas executive, has aligned closely with Trump, branding himself as "MAGA Mayes" and emphasizing his conservative credentials.
Both candidates have pledged to continue the aggressive legal strategies employed by Paxton, which include lawsuits against Democratic administrations and local governments. The primary has been characterized by significant spending, with Middleton reportedly investing over $10 million in his campaign.
Key Issues and Voter Sentiment
The candidates have focused on their conservative records and legal experience, with Roy touting his background in government and his principled stands, while Middleton emphasizes his legislative achievements and alignment with Trump. Critics of Roy have questioned his conservative bona fides due to his past disagreements with Trump and his calls for Paxton's resignation amid legal controversies.
Voter sentiment appears to favor Middleton's self-funded campaign strategy, which has resonated with a base eager for a candidate closely aligned with Trump's agenda. The runoff is expected to be highly competitive, with both candidates aiming to consolidate support from the broader Republican electorate.
Official Statements & Responses
Adam Piper, executive director of the Republican Attorneys General Association, stated, “The Texas Attorney General’s Office is the largest legal power in the conservative movement, nationally, period, end of story.” This underscores the importance of the role in shaping conservative legal strategies.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of Roy have highlighted his past conflicts with Trump and the GOP establishment, suggesting that his approach may not align with the current Republican base's expectations. Middleton has capitalized on this narrative, arguing that Roy's history of dissent could jeopardize the effectiveness of the attorney general's office.
What's Next
As the May runoff approaches, both candidates will need to intensify their campaigns to secure the Republican nomination. The outcome will not only determine the GOP candidate for the general election but also set the tone for the party's strategy in Texas, a state where Democrats have struggled to win statewide offices in recent decades. The runoff is anticipated to attract significant financial backing and media attention, further intensifying the political landscape in Texas leading up to the November general election.
