Story perspectives

Trump Endorses Paxton; Texas Senate Race Raises $7.6 M

6/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump endorsed Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton for the U.S. Senate at the convention.
Paxton’s campaign reported $7.6 million raised and $2.3 million in cash.
Governor Greg Abbott rallied Republicans, touting party unity, data-center tax incentives, and a five-point property-tax relief plan.
Democratic candidate Gina Hinojosa accused Abbott of favoring donors and ignoring health-care costs while Republican officials said focus remains on a 2026 victory.

History

Historical Context

On November 8 1994, the Republican Revolution gave the GOP its first unified congressional majority since 1952, capturing a net 54 House seats, eight Senate seats and ten governorships while running on the Contract with America. That wave propelled George W. Bush to the Texas governorship, establishing a Texas GOP base that now underlies Trump’s support for Ken Paxton and the party’s 2026 Senate strategy.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump endorsed Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton for the U.S. Senate at the convention.
Paxton’s campaign reported $7.6 million raised and $2.3 million in cash.
Governor Greg Abbott rallied Republicans, touting party unity, data-center tax incentives, and a five-point property-tax relief plan.
Democratic candidate Gina Hinojosa accused Abbott of favoring donors and ignoring health-care costs while Republican officials said focus remains on a 2026 victory.

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