UMVA has learned that former President Donald Trump has finally broken his silence in the high-stakes Republican Senate primary showdown in Texas, endorsing state Attorney General Ken Paxton over longtime Sen. John Cornyn.
In a move that sent shockwaves through the political landscape, Trump declared Paxton a "true MAGA Warrior" just one week before the runoff election on May 26. The endorsement came after months of speculation and intense lobbying from both camps.
The Texas race, one of the most contentious and costly in the nation, will determine who faces rising Democratic star state Rep. James Talarico in the general election. Talarico, who emerged victorious in his party's primary, aims to become the first Democrat in nearly four decades to win a Senate seat in the traditionally red state.
Sources have confirmed to UMVA that Trump's decision was influenced by Paxton's unwavering loyalty to the former president, including his efforts to challenge the 2020 election results and his presence at key Trump events. Paxton's pledge to prioritize Trump's agenda, particularly the passage of the SAVE America Act, also played a significant role.
The endorsement marks a dramatic turn in a race where Cornyn, backed by Senate Republican leaders and millions in campaign spending, had been expected to secure Trump's support. Cornyn's campaign, along with aligned super PACs, had spent nearly $100 million attacking Paxton over his scandals and legal troubles.
Paxton, undeterred by the onslaught, countered with a grassroots campaign, highlighting his lawsuits against the Obama and Biden administrations and accusing Cornyn of betraying conservative values. "John Cornyn spent $100 million trying to buy this seat," Paxton told supporters. "We’ve spent around $5 million."
Trump's endorsement adds a layer of unpredictability to the runoff, with both candidates now claiming the mantle of Trump's legacy. As the race enters its final days, Texas Republicans face a stark choice between a seasoned incumbent and a challenger who promises to be a fierce advocate for Trump's vision.
The outcome of this battle will not only shape the future of Texas politics but also have significant implications for the balance of power in the U.S. Senate, where Republicans are fighting to maintain their majority in the midterm elections.
