Story perspectives

Trump Endorses Paxton as PAC Spending Surges 131 Million

By Drooid · Oct 2, 2026, 6:00 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

President Donald Trump endorsed Texas Gov. Ken Paxton for the Senate, calling him a “pain in the ass”.
PollsMax poll gave Democratic nominee James Talarico a 3.2-point lead over Paxton.
A Republican PAC spent $131 million on Paxton’s campaign in 17 days, about $7.7 million daily.
President Trump’s super PAC contributed nearly $24 million to independent expenditures supporting Paxton.
Outside groups spent over $205 million on the general election, 98% backing Paxton.

History

Historical Context

After the Supreme Court’s 2010 Citizens United decision removed corporate limits and enabled super-PACs, groups like America Rising spent $131 million in a 17-day Senate push. That financing model now powers Donald Trump’s Super PAC, which has pledged nearly $24 million for Texas Governor Ken Paxton, illustrating the ruling’s lasting impact on donor influence.

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Story summary

President Donald Trump endorsed Texas Gov. Ken Paxton for the Senate, calling him a “pain in the ass”.
PollsMax poll gave Democratic nominee James Talarico a 3.2-point lead over Paxton.
A Republican PAC spent $131 million on Paxton’s campaign in 17 days, about $7.7 million daily.
President Trump’s super PAC contributed nearly $24 million to independent expenditures supporting Paxton.
Outside groups spent over $205 million on the general election, 98% backing Paxton.

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