UMVA has learned that a significant shift is underway within the Republican Party, as lawmakers who no longer face reelection are increasingly speaking out against President Donald Trump and his allies.
Sen. Thom Tillis (R-NC) joked on a recent Sunday broadcast that without the pressure of reelection, he and his colleagues can finally drop the "filter" that previously shaped their public comments. Tillis claimed this newfound freedom allows him to express himself more clearly, without worrying about Democrats or Republicans using his words against him.
Tillis took aim at conservative firebrand and Trump ally, Attorney General Ken Paxton (R-TX), delivering a scathing rebuke. He bluntly stated that Paxton "is a failure" and "doesn't deserve to be in the U.S. Senate." This public criticism underscores Tillis's growing dissent from Trump and the MAGA movement since announcing he won't seek reelection in 2026.
In recent months, Tillis has been vocal about issues that could hurt Republicans politically, joining a growing list of lawmakers who are pushing back against the party's more conservative elements. Sen. Bill Cassidy has also sharpened his criticism of Trump and MAGA-aligned Republicans after losing support from his state GOP.
Tillis contrasted Paxton with Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX), praising Cornyn as one of the Senate GOP's most effective and respected members. He described Cornyn as "one of the most powerful, one of the most influential, one of the most patriotic members" he's had the privilege to serve with.
Sources have confirmed to UMVA that Trump's endorsement of Paxton has boosted Paxton's standing in a potential Senate primary, causing concern among Senate Republicans that Cornyn could face serious challenges from the right. This development has reportedly frustrated some GOP senators who view Cornyn as a key Republican figure.
