Trump endorses Paxton in Texas, gambling on a challenger with baggage in a crucial race

Donald Trump has endorsed Ken Paxton in the Texas Republican Senate primary, choosing a challenger with a history of legal and ethical controversies over incumbent John Cornyn. Paxton, who rallied for Trump during his recent trial, has faced impeachment for alleged fraud and obstruction of justice, and settled a federal corruption indictment without admitting misconduct. Trump stated he knows Paxton well and considers him a "winner," contrasting him with Cornyn, whom Trump felt was not supportive during difficult times. Cornyn, however, noted he voted with Trump over 99% of the time. This endorsement has reportedly dismayed many Senate Republicans.

Donald Trump has endorsed Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in the Republican primary for the U.S. Senate. Trump praised Paxton as an "America First Patriot" and "MAGA Warrior" in a social media post ahead of the May primary runoff. This endorsement supports Paxton's challenge against incumbent Senator John Cornyn. The article notes that other leading Republicans believe Cornyn would be a stronger candidate in the general election. Paxton has faced controversies, including an impeachment trial on corruption charges in 2023 and a settlement in a securities fraud case in 2024.

President Donald Trump issued a "Complete and Total Endorsement" for Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in the state's Republican Senate primary. This endorsement came shortly after early voting began for the runoff election against incumbent Senator John Cornyn. Trump's social media post stated Paxton would "never let you down." The timing of the endorsement was unexpected, especially as early voting was already underway. This move is likely to displease many Republican leaders who had supported Cornyn, a four-term senator. Trump's endorsement is considered significant in Texas, a state he won by a substantial margin in 2024. Democrats are reportedly targeting Texas in their efforts to gain control of the US Senate.

President Donald Trump has endorsed Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in the Republican primary runoff for the U.S. Senate seat held by incumbent John Cornyn. The endorsement, announced Tuesday, aims to boost Paxton's challenge to the four-term senator. Paxton, who positions himself as a "MAGA Warrior," faces Cornyn in a runoff scheduled for May 26. Trump's endorsement places him at odds with some Republican establishment figures who believe Cornyn is the stronger candidate for the general election, where the nominee will face Democratic state Rep. James Talarico. Cornyn has emphasized his past support for Trump's agenda, while Trump's endorsement of Paxton signals a move to support candidates aligned with his political movement.