Karl Rove Raises Concerns Over Texas Senate Primary

Karl Rove, a Republican strategist, has expressed worries that Republicans might jeopardize Texas’ Senate seat if they back Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton (R) instead of the current Senator John Cornyn (R) in the upcoming primary.

During a segment on Fox News’ “Sunday Night in America,” host Trey Gowdy inquired about Rove’s view on the Texas primary and whether he believed President Trump would withdraw his support for either of the candidates.

Rove suggested that Trump is likely aware that endorsing Paxton, who is seen as a more divisive figure compared to Cornyn, could be a misstep.

“I think the president is going to take a step back and observe,” Rove commented. “He recognizes that backing an incumbent Republican senator, especially one as respected as Cornyn, poses certain challenges.”

He emphasized his longstanding friendship with Cornyn, having known the senator for many years.

Rove noted that if Cornyn secures the nomination, it could be a “gift” for Republicans, but he raised alarms about the potential Democratic response should Paxton run. He mentioned the various scandals surrounding Paxton, including allegations of corruption and personal controversies, which could make it more difficult for Republicans to retain the seat.

“If Paxton ends up as the nominee, we could witness the first Democratic win in Texas since 1994,” Rove cautioned.

Neither the White House nor Paxton’s campaign has responded to inquiries from The Hill.

Recent surveys indicate that Cornyn may be narrowing the gap with Paxton as the March 2026 primary approaches. Earlier polls had shown Paxton with a significant lead.

A recent poll from the University of Houston and Texas Southern University has disclosed that Paxton has a 34% approval rating, while Cornyn stands at 33%, and Rep. Wesley Hunt (R-Texas) is at 22%.