Ken Paxton just turned Texas into another Trump scoreboard.
The Texas attorney general decisively defeated incumbent Sen. John Cornyn in Tuesday’s Republican Senate runoff, completing a stunning takedown of a four-term senator one week after President Trump backed Paxton.
Paxton won 63.8% to 36.2%, according to reported results, after Cornyn had narrowly led him in the March 3 primary but failed to clear the 50% threshold needed to avoid a runoff.
The win gives Paxton the GOP nomination and sets up a Nov. 3 general election fight against Democratic state Rep. James Talarico.
It also marks another unmistakable show of Trump’s grip on Republican primary voters, following other recent Trump-backed wins in closely watched races.
Paxton credited Trump directly after the victory.
“When everyone in Washington told him to abandon me and abandon the people of Texas he didn’t listen,” Paxton said. “Instead, he gave his complete and total endorsement.”
“I’m honored to have his support, and I look forward to working with him in the Senate to deliver for Texas,” he added.
Trump congratulated Paxton on TRUTH Social while also praising Cornyn’s career and unloading on Talarico. Multiple outlets reported Trump’s post attacking Talarico and pledging to campaign for Paxton:
Congratulations to Ken Paxton on such a tremendous win, and to John Cornyn for having run a strong and powerful race but, more importantly, having had a truly great career. John will remain my friend for a long time to come, as we both watch Ken become a fantastic, common sense Senator, one who is respected by all. His opponent, Alfred E. Neuman, may be the worst TEXAS candidate I have ever seen. A strong Open Borders advocate, he is WEAK ON CRIME, believes there are 6 genders, is insulting to Jesus Christ, will never support the Military, was a big Mask Wearer until recently, and is a Vegan who dislikes meat, not exactly a good way to be if you’re wanting to win an Election in Texas. Jasmine Crockett, a very low IQ individual, who is no relation to the legendary frontiersman, Davy Crockett, would have been a far better choice for the Dumocrats. I will do some nice, big, beautiful rallies for Ken. Texas, this will be FUN! GOD BLESS AMERICA.
NEW: President Trump taking a victory lap after Ken Paxton’s GOP Senate primary win in Texas after his endorsement and taking aim at Democrats in the Lone Star State.
“Congratulations to Ken Paxton on such a tremendous win."
“His opponent, Alfred E. Neuman, may be the worst… pic.twitter.com/VFnOOsQaz6
— Fox News (@FoxNews) May 27, 2026
