After a contested race between incumbent U.S. Sen. John Cornyn and former Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, the candidate backed by President Donald Trump prevailed.
Paxton was endorsed by Trump just one week before the runoff election.
“TEXAS, REMEMBER! Ken Paxton was a GREAT Attorney General, probably the best in the Country. He was also very loyal to your favorite President, ME, as the Dumocrats played their ultimate game of Weaponization, and failed, BADLY!” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “Vote for Ken Paxton on Tuesday, HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!!!”
Cornyn, meanwhile, failed to secure the president’s endorsement after Trump described him as “very disloyal” and noted the senator failed to help pass the SAVE America Act, which would have required Voter ID and proof of citizenship to vote.
Cornyn’s past support for amnesty for illegal aliens currently residing in the United States resurfaced during the campaign and generated pushback against the incumbent.
He was also seen speaking on the Senate floor discussing a proposal that included “border security, interior enforcement, improvements in the E-Verify system, and a path to legal status for DACA recipients.”
Meanwhile, Paxton’s record reflects a more conservative approach to immigration. As Texas attorney general, he filed multiple lawsuits against cities that prevented law enforcement agencies from honoring ICE administrative warrants. Paxton also sued the Biden Administration over immigration rules he said lowered the asylum standard.
Cornyn received more votes than Paxton during the Republican primary election in March, earning 42.5 percent of the vote to Paxton’s 40.8 percent. However, during the May runoff, Paxton defeated Cornyn decisively, earning 63.5 percent of the vote.
During Paxton’s victory speech, he thanked Cornyn for his years of service representing Texas.
“I want to thank John Cornyn for his service to this state. John has dedicated much of his life to serving Texans. He’s worked diligently for years to help Texas and for that spirit of service to the Lone Star State and our nation, I’m very grateful,” said Paxton.
Cornyn also addressed supporters, saying he has “always supported the Republican ticket” and intends to do so in the general election.
Paxton will now face Democratic candidate James Talarico in the general election on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2026.
