U.S. Senator John Cornyn is vying for a fifth term amid a challenging Republican primary, facing stiff competition from Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and Houston-area U.S. Representative Wesley Hunt. With a complex landscape of bitter campaign tactics and substantial financial support, each candidate is fighting for a foothold in a primary that has turned increasingly divisive.
Recent financial disclosures from the Federal Election Commission show Cornyn leading with nearly $5.9 million in cash, while Paxton has about $3.7 million and Hunt trails with less than $779,000. However, a poll by the University of Houston’s Hobby School indicates that Paxton is pulling ahead, garnering 38% support among likely GOP primary voters compared to Cornyn’s 31% and Hunt’s 17%.
Throughout the campaign, the candidates have engaged in extensive advertising efforts, spending millions in their bids for dominance since Paxton’s announcement to challenge Cornyn last April. Political analysts note that while Paxton has faced some criticism, his support appears resilient compared to the attacks launched by Cornyn against Hunt and vice versa.
A prevailing theme in the race is loyalty to former President Donald Trump. Paxton has positioned himself as more aligned with Trump’s ideologies, often criticizing Cornyn for his past reservations about Trump. He cites instances where Cornyn did not wholly support Trump during critical electoral moments. Hunt has also emphasized his youth and vigor as appropriate for embodying Trump’s long-term vision, contrasting sharp with Cornyn’s established status at 74 years old.
The endorsement of Trump could play a pivotal role in the primary, as a majority of GOP voters indicate they would be more likely to support a Trump-endorsed candidate. However, political consultants suggest that Trump may remain on the sidelines, benefiting from both candidates’ efforts to appeal to his base while navigating their own paths.
Cornyn, whose experience shapes both his campaign strengths and weaknesses, has emphasized his legislative history of supporting Trump’s agenda while defending his own record against criticisms from both opponents. His significant experience and contributions to Texas, including substantial federal funding for state projects, are central to his campaign narrative.
The primary has also seen a rise in anti-Muslim rhetoric among the candidates, with all three candidates moving to align with sentiments expressed in the Republican party—a tactic that some analysts suggest could backfire in the broader election.
With primary day approaching on March 3, it is anticipated that no candidate will achieve a clear majority, leading to a likely runoff between the top two contenders on May 26. This dynamic could present an unexpected opportunity for Texas Democrats if the Republican candidates exhaust each other in the primaries, potentially weakening their position in the fall elections.
Ultimately, the evolving political landscape continues to draw voter interest, with upcoming debates likely to further influence the outcome of this crucial primary fight.