Senate Republicans’ Concerns as Trump Backs Paxton in Texas

Moments after President Donald Trump announced his support in the Texas Senate race, reactions among Senate Republicans shifted dramatically. They were en route to a weekly closed-door lunch aimed at addressing the delayed immigration funding package. Trump’s decision to endorse Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton over longtime incumbent Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, stirred concern over the potential risk to a traditionally Republican seat.

Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, expressed her disappointment, stating, “I think that this puts that seat in jeopardy. How does that help strengthen the president’s hand when we lose a state like Texas?” The winner of this runoff will face Texas state Rep. James Talarico, who garnered strong support from high-profile Democrats, including former President Barack Obama.

While history favors Paxton, as Texas has not elected a Democrat to the Senate since 1988, many Republicans believed Cornyn was the safer candidate. Sen. Steve Daines, R-Mont., backed Cornyn, believing him the more secure choice for the state. Cornyn criticized Paxton for his scandals, including his impeachment and alleged affair, warning of potential consequences if Paxton secures the nomination.

Cornyn stated, “It is now time for Texas Republican voters to decide if they want a strong nominee. I trust the Republican voters of Texas.” Nick Maddux, Paxton’s campaign strategist, countered by emphasizing Paxton’s track record, highlighting his victories in three statewide elections.

Maddux said, “The bottom line is that Ken Paxton will be the Republican nominee for this fall, and we are ready to unite the party.” This race pits Republicans against Talarico, described as a radical Democrat. As the primary runoff approaches, Trump’s endorsement of Paxton continues to influence the dynamic within the Senate Republican ranks.

Many of Cornyn’s colleagues held their support, wary of Paxton’s baggage. Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., questioned Paxton’s felony status. Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., despite lobbying for Cornyn, acknowledged Trump’s decision, emphasizing support for Cornyn.

“Senator Cornyn is a principled conservative,” Thune noted. “He is a very effective senator for the state of Texas. None of us control what the president does. He made his decision about that. That doesn’t change the way I feel, and I am certainly supportive of and will continue to be supportive of Senator Cornyn in his re-election.”