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Texas Senate Race Tightens as Trump Delays Endorsement

3/10/2026

31 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Texas Republican primary for U.S. Senate is very close, with Senator John Cornyn at 42% and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton at 41%.
U.S. President Donald Trump is delaying his endorsement, a potential race influence.
Paxton could drop out if the Senate passes the SAVE America Act, a Trump priority.
Cornyn has shifted toward a talking filibuster, a move that could influence Republican resources in other competitive states.

History

Historical Context

In the 2014 Texas Republican primary, Senator John Cornyn won re-election with 59% of the vote, reflecting the party's dominance in a state that has not elected a Democrat to statewide office since 1994. The current race between Cornyn and Ken Paxton highlights ongoing intra-party tensions, particularly influenced by Donald Trump's presence, which could reshape Republican strategies in future elections.

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Story summary

The Texas Republican primary for U.S. Senate is very close, with Senator John Cornyn at 42% and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton at 41%.
U.S. President Donald Trump is delaying his endorsement, a potential race influence.
Paxton could drop out if the Senate passes the SAVE America Act, a Trump priority.
Cornyn has shifted toward a talking filibuster, a move that could influence Republican resources in other competitive states.

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