A significant battle is brewing within the Republican Party of Texas as several contenders vie for a U.S. Senate seat, potentially reshaping the political landscape of the state.
Republican Representative Lance Gooden, known for his conservative stance and alignment with former President Donald Trump, has publicly endorsed Ken Paxton in this developing primary challenge to incumbent Senator John Cornyn. Gooden, representing a district spanning eastern Dallas and surrounding areas, declared his support for Paxton on Thursday, stating that the Attorney General is “the conservative champion we need in the U.S. Senate.” He anticipates Paxton will aggressively confront the political establishment, secure the border, and champion Trump’s agenda.
Paxton formally announced his candidacy Tuesday evening during an appearance on Fox News, asserting, “It’s time for a change in Texas.” He criticized Senator Cornyn, suggesting it is time for “another great senator that will actually stand up and fight for Republican values.”
Cornyn, who has held the seat since 2002, faces what promises to be his toughest re-election campaign. He enjoys support from high-ranking Republicans including Senate Majority Leader John Thune of South Dakota and the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC). Sources indicate that both Thune and NRSC Chair, Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina, have reportedly sought Trump’s endorsement for Cornyn.
The former president’s influence within the GOP remains substantial, making any potential endorsement highly impactful in this primary race.
Cornyn has maintained a strong connection to Trump throughout his tenure, citing a 92% voting record aligned with the former President’s agenda. In contrast, Paxton has repeatedly characterized Cornyn as not representing Texas conservative values and even labeled him a “RINO” (Republican in Name Only), a term frequently used by MAGA Republicans.
Paxton’s political journey has been marked by legal challenges. He was indicted on securities fraud charges shortly after taking office in 2015, faced an FBI investigation into bribery and corruption allegations from former staffers, and narrowly survived a primary challenge in 2022 amidst these controversies.
In 2023, Paxton was impeached by the Texas House of Representatives but subsequently acquitted by the state Senate. Federal charges were dropped during the final weeks of the Biden administration.
Veteran Republican strategist Matt Mackowiak predicts a highly contentious and expensive primary: “This is going to be the most expensive, nastiest, most aggressive, most personal U.S. Senate primary in Texas history.”
Adding another layer of complexity to this developing situation, Representative Wesley Hunt, a rising star within the Republican party, is considering entering the race himself.
- Hunt’s political team has reportedly made a case that he represents the best chance for winning both the primary and general elections.
- An outside group is currently investing heavily in advertising to increase his visibility across Texas.
The ultimate victor of this Republican primary will be considered the frontrunner in the subsequent general election, against whomever Democrats nominate.
Former Democratic Representative Colin Allred has indicated he will decide by summer whether or not to launch a campaign for the Senate.
