Trump’s iron grip on the Republican party has never been stronger. What about the country?
Donald Trump's influence over the Republican party remains strong, as evidenced by Texas attorney general Ken Paxton's victory in the Senate primary runoff. However, Democrats are optimistic that Paxton's extremism may alienate moderate voters, potentially benefiting their campaign. The upcoming elections will test whether Trump's grip on the party will hinder its broader appeal to the electorate.
- ▪Ken Paxton won the Republican primary runoff with a significant margin of 64% to 36%.
- ▪Democrats believe Paxton's extreme views may drive moderate voters away from the Republican party.
- ▪The Cook Political Report has shifted the Senate seat rating from 'Likely Republican' to 'Lean Republican'.
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Donald Trump speaks in front of the US flag to the press as he departs the White House on 12 May 2026 in Washington DC. Photograph: Kevin Dietsch/Getty ImagesView image in fullscreenDonald Trump speaks in front of the US flag to the press as he departs the White House on 12 May 2026 in Washington DC. Photograph: Kevin Dietsch/Getty ImagesUS midterm elections 2026AnalysisTrump’s iron grip on the Republican party has never been stronger. What about the country?Callum JonesThe US president’s backing of Maga extremists turns off the very voters Republicans need to win over in the midtermsWed 27 May 2026 11.48 EDTLast modified on Wed 27 May 2026 11.50 EDTShareDonald Trump gave it a minute.At 9.01pm it was confirmed that Texas attorney general Ken Paxton – a hardliner backed by the US president…
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