Story perspectives

Trump-Endorsed Paxton Beats Cornyn for Texas Senate Nomination

5/27/2026

Summary

Story summary

Ken Paxton won the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate in Texas, defeating incumbent John Cornyn on May 26, 2026.
President Donald Trump’s last-minute endorsement was credited with helping Paxton secure the victory.
The runoff cost more than $120 million in advertising, with Cornyn’s campaign and allied groups spending roughly $109 million.
Paxton, who entered after impeachment and a dismissed securities-fraud indictment, will face Democrat James Talarico in November.

History

Historical Context

On November 8 1994, Newt Gingrich led the Republican Revolution, giving the GOP its first simultaneous control of the House and Senate in 40 years. That election also saw George W. Bush win the Texas governorship, illustrating how national party surges can reshape Texas races. The 2026 Senate runoff reflects the lasting impact of that 1994 shift toward aggressive, personality-driven campaigns.

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Story summary

Ken Paxton won the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate in Texas, defeating incumbent John Cornyn on May 26, 2026.
President Donald Trump’s last-minute endorsement was credited with helping Paxton secure the victory.
The runoff cost more than $120 million in advertising, with Cornyn’s campaign and allied groups spending roughly $109 million.
Paxton, who entered after impeachment and a dismissed securities-fraud indictment, will face Democrat James Talarico in November.

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