Story perspectives

Paxton Leads Cornyn in Texas GOP Runoff; Talarico Gains Momentum

4/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton leads Senator John Cornyn 48% to 40% in the Republican runoff, with 11% undecided.
Democratic candidate James Talarico received positive news from the poll.
Talarico performs better against Paxton than Cornyn in hypothetical matchups.
Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick urged Republican unity amid concerns about Democratic gains in Texas.
The Texas Senate runoff is scheduled for May 26, determining the general election matchup.

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Story summary

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton leads Senator John Cornyn 48% to 40% in the Republican runoff, with 11% undecided.
Democratic candidate James Talarico received positive news from the poll.
Talarico performs better against Paxton than Cornyn in hypothetical matchups.
Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick urged Republican unity amid concerns about Democratic gains in Texas.
The Texas Senate runoff is scheduled for May 26, determining the general election matchup.