Full Breakdown
Paxton Secures Trump Meeting After Runoff Victory
6/3/2026, 8:16:17 AM
Paxton Secures Trump Meeting After Runoff Victory
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, the Republican nominee for U.S. Senate, met President Donald Trump at the White House on June 2, his first in-person encounter with the former president since winning the May 26 runoff that unseated incumbent Sen. John Cornyn by 28 points. The meeting follows Trump’s endorsement a week before the runoff.
Background & Controversies
Paxton’s campaign has been shadowed by a 2023 impeachment by the Texas House on bribery, misuse of office and marital-infidelity charges, a subsequent Senate acquittal, a pending divorce filed on “biblical grounds,” and a dismissed securities-fraud indictment. These issues were central to attacks during the primary. His legal challenges have been cited by opponents as a liability in the general election.
Polls & Fundraising
A Texas Public Opinion Research poll shows Democratic nominee James Talarico leading Paxton 47%-43% overall and 64%-21% among independents. Favorability ratings list Paxton at –19 (38% favorable) versus Talarico at +7 (47% favorable). Talarico raised $3 million in 24 hours after the runoff; Paxton’s joint fundraiser with the NRSC required a $1,000 minimum donation.
Senate Control Stakes
Republicans hold a 53-47 Senate majority. Senate leaders have called Paxton “absolutely necessary” to retain that margin, while Democratic leaders warn his candidacy could jeopardize the seat and shift control of the chamber. The race is among the most closely watched Senate contests of 2026.
Official Statements
Sen. John Thune announced the party would be “all-in” for Paxton. Sen. John Cornyn said Paxton “absolutely” makes defending the seat tougher. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer reiterated, “We’re going to beat Susan Collins and take back the Senate.”
Criticism & Opposition
The Senate Republican campaign arm described Paxton’s conduct as “repulsive and disgusting.” Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear called him “so corrupt that his own party impeached him.” Democratic nominee Talarico labeled Paxton “the most corrupt politician in America.”
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Polls show Talarico ahead overall but give Paxton a 66%-18% lead among “somewhat” conservative voters. Favorability gaps also persist, leaving uncertainty about voter turnout in the November election.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We’re going to beat Susan Collins and take back the Senate,” — Chuck Schumer, Senate Democratic Leader
- “I think it is critical that we ensure that Ken Paxton is able to communicate his message with the voters of Texas,” — Sen. Ted Cruz
- “Texas-sized message to Washington,” — Ken Paxton
- “Absolutely.” — Sen. John Cornyn
What’s Next
Paxton will meet Senate Majority Leader Thune later this week and may host a Trump rally in Texas. Both campaigns plan intensified fundraising and voter outreach ahead of the November 3 general election, which will decide whether Republicans retain Senate control. The campaigns will also target key demographic groups in Texas, including Latino and suburban voters.
