Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Trump Endorses Paxton Over Cornyn in Texas Runoff

5/20/2026

29 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Donald Trump endorsed Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton over incumbent Sen. John Cornyn in the May 26, 2026 runoff, after early voting began on May 18, 2026.
In the March 3, 2026 primary, Sen. John Cornyn received 42% while Ken Paxton received 41%, sending both to the runoff.
Sen. John Cornyn posted on X that he has voted with Donald Trump over 99% of the time and urged voters to choose a nominee.

History

Historical Context

The 1994 Republican Revolution, driven by Newt Gingrich’s Contract with America, delivered a net gain of 54 House seats and eight Senate seats, giving the GOP its first House majority since 1952. That wave showed how national party leaders could reshape races, a pattern echoed in May 2026 when former president Donald Trump backed Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in the Republican Senate runoff against incumbent John Cornyn.

1 of 2

Story summary

Donald Trump endorsed Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton over incumbent Sen. John Cornyn in the May 26, 2026 runoff, after early voting began on May 18, 2026.
In the March 3, 2026 primary, Sen. John Cornyn received 42% while Ken Paxton received 41%, sending both to the runoff.
Sen. John Cornyn posted on X that he has voted with Donald Trump over 99% of the time and urged voters to choose a nominee.

1 / 2