BREAKING: Texas Republican Congressman Throws Support Behind Paxton in Senate Primary Battle Over Cornyn

Republican Rep. Lance Gooden of Texas recently endorsed state Attorney General Ken Paxton in the GOP Senate primary battle against longtime Senator John Cornyn. Gooden praised Paxton as a conservative champion who would fight for President Trump’s agenda and bring change to Texas. Paxton announced his candidacy on Fox News, highlighting the need for a senator who would support Republican values and back the former president’s priorities. Paxton has critiqued Cornyn for not representing conservative Texans and lacking Trump’s support, while also labeling him as a “Republican in name only.”

Cornyn, facing a tough reelection campaign, has received support from Senate Majority Leader John Thune and the National Republican Senatorial Committee. Both Thune and Sen. Tim Scott have urged Trump to endorse Cornyn, acknowledging the former president’s influence within the GOP. Cornyn’s campaign emphasized his past support for Trump and his backing of the president’s policies during his time in the Senate. The senator expressed uncertainty about Paxton’s motivations for running, hinting at personal ambitions rather than a strong conservative record.

Paxton, known for his legal battles in support of the MAGA movement, has faced accusations and investigations related to securities fraud, bribery, and corruption allegations. Despite surviving impeachment and legal challenges, Paxton’s past could serve as a point of attack from his opponents during the Senate race. Cornyn criticized Paxton as a “con man” and emphasized the need to address these issues as part of the campaign. Voters in Texas may consider Paxton’s background when deciding their support in the primary.

Political analysts anticipate a contentious and costly GOP Senate primary in Texas, with Gooden and other lawmakers taking sides and outside groups getting involved in the race. Conservative Rep. Wesley Hunt also expressed interest in running, presenting himself as a candidate who can win both the primary and general election. The primary winner will likely face the Democratic nominee, with former Rep. Colin Allred considering a Senate bid. Allred, a former NFL player and Democratic challenger in previous races, could challenge the Republican candidate in the general election.

The race reflects divisions within the Texas GOP between establishment figures like Cornyn and more Trump-aligned candidates like Paxton. Both sides aim to secure Trump’s endorsement and rally support from the party base. The primary campaign is expected to intensify as candidates highlight their positions on key issues and contrast their records. With Trump’s influence looming large in the state, his endorsement could be a deciding factor in the outcome of the primary. Voters will weigh the candidates’ backgrounds, policies, and support for Trump as they make their choices in the upcoming election.