In a significant move for the Texas Republican primary, Donald Trump has officially endorsed Attorney General Ken Paxton in his bid to unseat incumbent Senator John Cornyn. The endorsement marks a pivotal moment in the race, as Trump seeks to reshape the party by backing a candidate who has remained a staunch ally throughout his political career, despite Paxton’s own history of legal and personal controversies.

Paxton, who has faced impeachment proceedings and federal corruption allegations, has consistently aligned himself with Trump’s agenda, including efforts to challenge the 2020 election results and vocal support during the former president’s recent legal battles in New York. Trump praised Paxton as a “winner” while expressing frustration with Cornyn, citing the senator’s delayed endorsement of his 2024 campaign as a primary point of contention. This decision has caused friction within the Republican establishment, with several high-profile senators expressing disappointment over the move against a long-serving party loyalist.

Senator Cornyn, who served in Senate leadership for over a decade, has defended his record by highlighting his high rate of voting in alignment with Trump’s policies. His campaign has focused on the potential electoral risks posed by Paxton’s baggage, arguing that the attorney general is a weaker candidate who could jeopardize Republican prospects in the general election. Cornyn has framed the choice as a decision between a proven, reliable nominee and one whose past scandals could alienate moderate voters.

As early voting continues, the outcome of this primary remains uncertain. The winner will move on to face Democrat James Talarico in the November general election. While Texas has historically been a Republican stronghold, the internal party conflict and the shifting political landscape have turned this race into a critical test of Trump’s influence over the GOP base and the future direction of the party in the state.