Campaign High Importance

Cornyn, Paxton lock into Texas Senate GOP runoff still seeking Trump’s nod

Source: The Hill March 21, 2026 at 5:00 PM (3 weeks ago) Texas Senate Race

Sen. John Cornyn and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton are headed to a Republican Senate primary runoff in Texas, with both candidates actively seeking former President Trump's endorsement. Despite Trump's earlier signals that he would back one candidate and pressure the other to exit the race, neither candidate dropped out by Tuesday's deadline. The two will now compete in the runoff without a Trump endorsement having been formally announced.

Key Points

  • Cornyn and Paxton advanced to Texas GOP Senate runoff without Trump endorsement decision
  • Both candidates actively courting Trump's backing as he previously hinted at supporting one and pushing the other out
  • No candidate withdrew by the formal dropout deadline despite Trump's indication of involvement