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Ken Paxton Secures Trump's Endorsement, Shifting Senate Race Dynamics

KVIA•Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 9:21 PM•CNN Newsource

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Ken Paxton, Texas Attorney General, has successfully garnered Donald Trump's endorsement in the Senate race, a significant turnaround after trailing incumbent John Cornyn in the March primary. Paxton's strategic move on March 5, suggesting he would consider dropping out if Senate Republicans abolished the filibuster for a Trump-backed voter ID bill, caught Trump's attention and ultimately swayed his support. This endorsement positions Paxton as the frontrunner for the May 26 runoff, despite facing considerable opposition from Republican groups that have labeled him unelectable. The endorsement has energized Paxton's supporters while raising concerns among Senate GOP leaders about the potential impact on the general election, with Democrats now feeling more optimistic about their chances in Texas.

Key Details: • The Senate runoff is scheduled for May 26. • Paxton's endorsement by Trump was announced on Tuesday. • Cornyn has faced criticism for his past comments about Trump. • Paxton's campaign has been supported by significant financial backing from super PACs.

politics trump ken-paxton senate-race john-cornyn

People & Organizations

TexasDonald TrumpChuck SchumerJohn ThuneKen PaxtonJohn CornynTroy Nehls

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