On Wednesday, Senate Republicans moved quickly to mend fences after Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton won a significant victory over incumbent Senator John Cornyn in the Texas Republican runoff. Paxton’s 28-point win caught many off guard and prompted a swift shift in support from within the party.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune, who had previously backed Cornyn, expressed his endorsement for Paxton on “The Hugh Hewitt Show.” Thune emphasized the importance of Paxton’s win in November, framing it as crucial for securing the Republican majority and, in a broader sense, the future of the country.
“Republican voters in Texas made themselves clear last night. The candidate for November is Ken Paxton,” Thune remarked, adding that they need to rally efforts to ensure Texas remains Republican and keep leftist candidates out of the Senate. He noted that this seat would play a critical role in shaping the nation’s future.
Earlier in March, Thune had voiced the importance of keeping Cornyn in the Senate, referring to him as one of the nation’s most effective conservative leaders. However, reports indicated that party support for Cornyn has since evaporated following Paxton’s victory.
Senate Majority Leader John Barrasso also rallied behind Paxton, stressing that he must defeat the Democratic candidate James Talarico, whom Barrasso labeled a “far-left extremist.” He made a case for Paxton by asserting that voting for him represents a step towards a safer and more prosperous America.
Barrasso previously indicated an endorsement for Cornyn in March, but the tides seem to have shifted dramatically. He characterized Talarico as too radical for Texas, reinforcing his support for Paxton as an essential player in the Senate Republican majority.
Meanwhile, South Carolina Republican Senator Tim Scott, who had initially opposed a challenge against Cornyn, later sided with Paxton, stating that he stands with President Trump and Texas Republicans to maintain the party’s strength. Scott criticized Talarico, calling him a disaster for Texas.
After Scott’s endorsement, the National Republican Senatorial Committee quietly removed previous statements criticizing Paxton, which had pointed out personal controversies involving him. It marked a significant change in tone as the committee seemed to re-align with Paxton.
Senator Bernie Moreno from Ohio became one of the first senators to endorse Paxton immediately following his victory, and he echoed the need for Republican unity against Talarico. Meanwhile, Senator Ted Cruz, maintaining a neutral stance during the primaries, plans to host a fundraiser for Paxton soon.
Paxton’s decisive win was further solidified by a last-minute endorsement from former President Donald Trump. Despite the success, Democratic opponents are cautiously optimistic about their chances against him in the upcoming elections, especially given Paxton’s controversial past.
