Trump-backed Ken Paxton ousts John Cornyn in heated Texas primary after scandal-plagued campaign
Ken Paxton, backed by Donald Trump, won the Republican primary runoff for senator in Texas, defeating incumbent John Cornyn. This victory highlights Trump's influence in the state, even with Paxton's controversial past. Paxton will now face Democratic candidate James Talarico in the upcoming midterm elections, which could shift the political landscape in Texas.
- ▪Ken Paxton triumphed over John Cornyn in the Republican primary runoff for senator in Texas.
- ▪Paxton's victory indicates Trump's continued influence in Texas politics despite Paxton's scandal-plagued history.
- ▪Paxton will compete against Democratic candidate James Talarico in the midterm elections, where Talarico aims to become the first Democrat to win statewide office in Texas in over 30 years.
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Ken Paxton speaks to supporters at a campaign event in McKinney, Texas, 19 May 2026. Photograph: LM Otero/APView image in fullscreenKen Paxton speaks to supporters at a campaign event in McKinney, Texas, 19 May 2026. Photograph: LM Otero/APTexasTrump-backed Ken Paxton ousts John Cornyn in heated Texas race after scandal-plagued campaignRace had wide implications for Trump’s strength heading into midterms, where Paxton will face Democratic candidate James TalaricoDavid SmithTue 26 May 2026 21.08 EDTLast modified on Tue 26 May 2026 21.09 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleKen Paxton, the Donald Trump-backed Texas attorney general, triumphed over incumbent John Cornyn in the Republican primary runoff for senator.
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