Ken Paxton has a long record of sins: Nevertheless, he won the primary election with the support of Donald Trump in Texas.Image: keystone
Republican Ken Paxton, supported by President Donald Trump, has prevailed in the party’s primary election for a seat in the US Senate in the state of Texas.
May 27, 2026, 05:43May 27, 2026, 05:43
Paxton held his own with a clear lead against long-time incumbent John Cornyn, as CNN and other media reported. After almost 70 percent of the ballots were counted, Paxton was able to secure around 63 percent of the votes in the runoff, while Cornyn had around 36 percent.
In conservative Texas, the decision for Paxton is remarkable: As the state’s attorney general, he had to face, among other things, impeachment proceedings over allegations of corruption and abuse of office. After 38 years of marriage, his wife left him last year and publicly accused him of infidelity. With a view to the election in November, the Democrats are hoping to send a senator from Texas to Washington with their candidate James Talarico for the first time since 1993.
More on Ken Paxton and the Texas area code:
In the first round of voting in March, Cornyn was just ahead. However, because none of the candidates were able to secure an absolute majority, a runoff election was scheduled. Trump only expressed his support for Paxton about a week ago. The election was therefore also seen as a test for the question of how much weight Trump’s election recommendation has in the party.
Paxton’s victory could be helpful for Democrat James Talarico.Image: keystone
Paxton took legal action against Biden’s victory
Paxton is considered to be on the right wing of the party and is considered a rigorous supporter of Trump. Among other things, he initiated the redistricting of electoral districts in Texas that Trump wanted. He also supported Trump’s debunked claim that the 2020 election was “stolen.” He unsuccessfully challenged the result before the US Supreme Court.
Paxton and Talarico are competing for one of the 33 U.S. Senate seats up for election in the Nov. 3 midterm elections. Republicans currently hold a narrow majority in the House of Representatives. (sda/dpa/con)