Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton faces incumbent U.S. Sen. John Cornyn today in the Republican primary runoff for U.S. Senate, positioning himself as a bold change agent with strong grassroots and presidential support. Polls opened at 7 a.m. statewide for the decisive contest.
Paxton, 63, has served as Texas attorney general since 2015 after terms in the Texas House and Senate. A Baylor University graduate with a law degree from the University of Virginia, he built a reputation for high-profile lawsuits against federal policies on immigration, health care and environmental regulations. His office has led multi-state challenges to the Affordable Care Act and Biden-era rules.
In the March 3 primary, Paxton finished second with roughly 40.5% to Cornyn’s 42%, forcing the runoff. President Donald Trump endorsed Paxton on May 19, calling him a “true MAGA Warrior,” which energized his base in the final week. Paxton has emphasized fighting Washington establishment policies and advancing an America First agenda.
Vote with President Trump Tomorrow. The FINAL day to vote in the Republican runoff. If you’ve already voted, text your friends, call your family, and help get 5 more people to the polls.
— Attorney General Ken Paxton (@KenPaxtonTX) May 25, 2026
Every single vote matters. Let’s finish strong and WIN THIS!
FIND YOUR POLLING LOCATION… pic.twitter.com/j7TaZgtBVB
Paxton’s tenure has included significant legal victories alongside controversies, including an impeachment trial by the Texas Senate in 2023 on securities fraud-related allegations, from which he was acquitted. Supporters view him as a steadfast conservative willing to challenge federal overreach, while critics point to legal and ethical questions.
A Paxton win would shift Texas’ Senate representation toward a more confrontational style, potentially affecting party dynamics in Washington and the November matchup against Democrat James Talarico. Turnout remains a key factor after lighter early voting.
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