Trump’s Endorsement Shakes Texas Senate Race Dynamics

Moments after President Donald Trump announced his choice in the Texas Senate race, the mood among Senate Republicans shifted. Several were heading to their closed-door lunch, ready to discuss the stalled immigration funding package and plan for a demanding week. Trump’s decision to endorse Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton over long-serving Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, left many lawmakers silent and concerned. There is worry that this choice could jeopardize a seat that has been reliably Republican for decades.

Trump’s Influence in Texas Politics

Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, expressed her disappointment with the decision. She believes the seat could be at risk. Murkowski pointed out, “Based on the numbers that I’ve seen, this move might weaken the president’s position if we lose a state like Texas.” The runoff winner will confront Texas state Rep. James Talarico, who defeated Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-Texas, and has garnered endorsements from prominent Democrats, including former President Barack Obama.

History supports Paxton if he wins, as Texas hasn’t elected a Democrat to the Senate since 1988. Many Republicans felt Cornyn was the safer choice. Sen. Steve Daines, R-Mont., backing Cornyn, commented, “I do believe we are going to pull Texas, but I think John Cornyn was the safest bet.” Cornyn has criticized Paxton for scandals such as his impeachment and alleged affair and warned that Paxton might harm the GOP in November.

Cornyn stated, “Texas Republican voters must decide if they want a strong nominee to help GOP candidates and defeat Talarico in November, or a weak nominee who jeopardizes our concerns. I trust the Republican voters of Texas.”

Paxton campaign strategist Nick Maddux countered Cornyn’s criticisms, highlighting Paxton’s consistent success in statewide elections. “This is the only argument the Cornyn campaign has after 42 years with no accomplishments,” Maddux remarked. “Ken Paxton will be the Republican nominee, and we are ready to unite the party.”

The Stakes in the Runoff

The winner of the upcoming election will face James Talarico, the most radical Democrat to run statewide in Texas, according to Republicans. “The GOP must unite to prevent our state from his extreme views,” Maddux insisted.

Trump’s endorsement of Paxton came just a week before the primary runoff between him and Cornyn, causing a stir among Senate Republicans. Many were still reacting to Sen. Bill Cassidy’s, R-La., loss to Trump-supported Rep. Julia Letlow, R-La. As Election Day approaches, Cornyn and Paxton will face off one last time. Despite the pressure, many of Cornyn’s colleagues remain loyal, warning that Paxton’s controversies could risk the seat.

“I thought Ken Paxton was a felon,” Cassidy remarked to reporters.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., who tried to persuade Trump to support Cornyn, acknowledged that the decision was Trump’s. “Senator Cornyn is a principled conservative,” Thune stated. “He is an effective senator for Texas. I will continue to support him despite the president’s decision.”

Alex Miller covers the U.S. Senate for Fox News Digital.