Senate Republicans Eye Challenging Election in Texas

May 26, 2026 at 5:00 a.m. EDT

Senate candidate Ken Paxton speaks to supporters at a campaign stop on May 15 in Little Elm, Tex. (Ron Jenkins/Getty Images)

Senate Republicans are preparing for a costly election in Texas. The state’s scandal-ridden attorney general is aiming to unseat Sen. John Cornyn, a four-term incumbent. Cornyn is facing a primary runoff against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton on Tuesday.

Public polls indicate a lead for Paxton. Senate Republicans have strongly supported Cornyn, arguing he is a more favorable candidate for the general election against Democrat state Rep. James Talarico.