The National Republican Senate Committee has urged Rep. Wesley Hunt (R-Texas) to halt any speculation about a potential Senate run, according to new memos obtained exclusively by The Hill.
The committee describes Hunt’s ambition for a Senate seat in Texas as a “vanity project,” warning that it might “dilute” the party’s resources at a critical time before the GOP primary, risking control of the chamber.
In a memo referencing six polls from August, the Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton (R) is shown to be leading Hunt by an average of four points, characterizing the rivalry between the two Republicans as a “statistical tie.”
“The deficit has disappeared, but Wesley Hunt continues to cling to the misleading narrative he used to justify his ambitions,” the memo states.
“The way forward is clear: Hunt should cease squandering donor resources on his Senate aspirations, run for reelection in his new district, and assist President Trump in securing five crucial seats to uphold the Republican majority in the House,” it continues.
Earlier polls this year suggested that Sen. John Cornyn, who has held his Senate seat since 2002, often led Paxton by double digits. However, concerns have arisen among Republicans, particularly as Paxton faces challenges from recent legal troubles and a divorce.
Hunt has concentrated on the competitive primary landscape, spending approximately $1.2 million on advertising, as reported by ad tracking firm Adimpact.
Last month, a new 30-second ad was released, highlighting Hunt’s support for President Trump, his military service, and his conservative voting record. The ad also features his family life, showcasing him with his wife and three children, and draws comparisons to Paxton.
Earlier this year, Hunt discussed his Senate ambitions with the White House. Trump indicated last week that he remains undecided regarding both Paxton and Cornyn, while recent polls suggest increasing challenges for Cornyn as spending and campaigning ramp up.
A poll from Texas Southern University last month found Paxton with 44% to Cornyn’s 39%, with 17% of voters undecided. A previous poll from May had indicated a nine-point lead for Paxton over Cornyn.
In contrast, an Emerson College poll from last month showed Cornyn slightly ahead at 30% compared to Paxton’s 29%, with 5% favoring another candidate, and 37% still undecided.
