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Sen. John Cornyn Secures 18 New Texas Republican Endorsements in Contentious Senate Runoff
Sen. John Cornyn has received endorsements from 18 additional Texas Republicans in his increasingly bitter primary runoff against state Attorney General Ken Paxton. Among the new supporters are U.S. Representatives Randy Weber, Nathaniel Moran, and Roger Williams, influential state Rep. Matt Shaheen, and former Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan.
The high-stakes runoff has become more contentious after neither candidate reached the 50% threshold needed to secure the GOP nomination in the March primary. The outcome carries significant implications for Republicans nationwide, as Democrats believe their candidate James Talarico, a state representative considered a rising star in the party, could potentially flip the seat for the first time in decades.
“I’m honored to have the endorsement of many longtime friends in Texas politics, whom I have gotten to know during our time in office and with whom I’ve been proud to work,” Cornyn told Fox News Digital. “I have always worked hard to earn the trust of our elected officials, so we can roll up our sleeves and work together for the betterment of all Texans.”
Cornyn, who has held his Senate seat since 2002 and is a senior Republican in the chamber, now has the public backing of 30 prominent Republican legislative leaders from Texas. His campaign claims support from more than 500 current and former Texas elected officials. Beyond state borders, Cornyn has secured endorsements from Senate Majority Leader John Thune, the National Republican Senatorial Committee, and the National Border Patrol Council.
Rep. Weber emphasized Cornyn’s energy credentials in his endorsement statement: “He has been a tireless fighter for Texas energy, standing up for our oil and gas industry and working to unleash American energy dominance.”
State Rep. Shaheen highlighted electoral considerations, warning of potential consequences if Cornyn isn’t nominated. “As someone with a Democrat challenger this November, I understand how vital it is that John Cornyn be our U.S. Senate nominee, otherwise election losses for Republicans could be disastrous,” Shaheen said. “He has never lost an election, and with him at the top of the ballot, he will defeat James Talarico and lift up Republicans in down-ballot races.”
Paxton, who has served as Texas attorney general since 2015, maintains strong grassroots support of his own. Last week, he secured 13 new state-level endorsements, including several prominent legislators, bringing his total to 250 Texas Republican leaders. His backers include U.S. Representatives Lance Gooden and Troy Nehls, Turning Point USA, and the NRA Political Victory Fund.
“The momentum behind our campaign continues to grow stronger every single day,” Paxton said after receiving his recent endorsements. “Texans are ready for a change and are ready to be represented by an America First warrior who is going to work tirelessly to help Texas and support President Trump.”
Notably absent from either candidate’s supporter list is former President Donald Trump, who has indicated he likes both men but hasn’t officially endorsed either. Trump has hinted an endorsement will come “soon” and suggested the SAVE America Act, a voting integrity bill currently under Senate consideration, will influence his decision.
“A lot has to do with the SAVE America Act,” Trump said, according to NBC News. “A lot is going to determine — Republicans have to get that passed, because that will secure voting in this country.”
Cornyn recently shifted his position on Senate rules to support the legislation, co-authoring an opinion piece in The New York Post titled “Why the SAVE Act matters more than the filibuster.” In it, he advocated for passing the measure through “whatever changes to Senate rules may prove necessary” – marking a departure from his previous support for the filibuster.
The outcome of this contentious primary could significantly impact the Republican Party’s chances of maintaining Senate control, potentially affecting Trump’s legislative agenda should he win the presidency. For Texas, it represents one of the most competitive and closely watched Senate races in decades.
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7 Comments
This race highlights the ongoing tensions within the Republican party. While Cornyn seems to have more establishment support, Paxton’s populist appeal could resonate with some voters. Curious to see how the dynamics play out and what it means for the general election.
The potential for a Democratic pickup of this long-held Republican seat is intriguing. Talarico appears to be a rising star, but it will be an uphill battle in a deeply red state. The GOP infighting may create an opening, but they will still be favored to retain control.
This is an important race to keep an eye on. The outcome could shift the balance of power in the Senate, so both parties will be closely engaged. I’m interested to see how the Republican primary plays out and who emerges as the nominee to face the Democratic challenger.
Securing key endorsements is important, but the real test will be winning over voters. I hope the Republican candidates focus on substantive issues rather than personal attacks. Texas deserves a Senator who will work constructively for the state’s interests.
This race could have national implications, so it’s worth watching closely. I’m curious to see if Cornyn’s establishment support or Paxton’s populist appeal wins out in the primary. And how the winner fares against the Democratic challenger in the general election.
The battle for this Senate seat is shaping up to be a hard-fought one. Cornyn’s endorsements show he has institutional backing, but Paxton may be able to tap into grassroots energy. Ultimately, it will come down to which candidate can most effectively connect with Texas voters.
Interesting political shakeup in Texas. It will be important for Republicans to unite behind a strong candidate to hold this crucial Senate seat. Cornyn’s endorsements from fellow GOP leaders could give him an edge, but Paxton’s supporters may put up a tough fight.