Trump Supports Ken Paxton’s Senate Campaign in Texas
President Trump boosted Ken Paxton’s Senate campaign during a recent stop in Texas, launching a tour aimed at energizing his MAGA supporters for the upcoming elections in November.
Even though Trump called his chosen candidate a “pain in the a–,” he made it clear to his supporters that they should cast their votes for Paxton, who is contending with Democrat James Talarico in a tight race.
“We need Ken so badly, that’s why I am here,” he stated frankly. Texas is vital for Republicans to secure control of the Senate.
This Texas event is part of a series of stops in states that gave Trump strong support in the last presidential election, even as many GOP candidates struggle to mirror his success.
At Peterbilt Motors, Trump highlighted his administration’s trade and economic policies, noting that truck tariffs implemented during his presidency contributed to job growth.
Following his visit in Texas, he plans to head to Oklahoma to support Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike Mazzei. Next week, he’ll campaign for GOP gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman in upstate New York. Additionally, there are thoughts about a trip to Alaska to aid Senator Dan Sullivan, who is facing challenges.
Trump emphasized the need for Republicans to effectively communicate their achievements if they want to succeed in the midterm elections.
“People say we’ve done poorly in public relations, but well in management,” he commented. “We need to get our message across to show we have had the best numbers of any president.”
In Texas, a state Trump won by nearly 15 points in 2024, he aimed to lend some of his popularity to Paxton, who is trailing in polls amid ongoing legal scrutiny. Trump previously endorsed Paxton over incumbent GOP Senator John Cornyn during the primary, which secured Paxton’s nomination.
He referred to the state attorney general as “one of the most loyal people” to him. “Ken Paxton was at my side more than anybody, and yes, he could be a pain sometimes,” Trump admitted to the crowd.
Trump, while praising Paxton, didn’t invite him to speak, leaving some wondering if there’s tension following reports that Paxton felt GOP candidates’ standings worsened after Trump’s midterm gathering in Dallas.
As he continues his tour, Trump is promoting his administration’s job creation and manufacturing successes to counter voter worries about the economy.
“This year, the United States has added 60,000 new manufacturing jobs, with heavy truck manufacturing up by about 31 percent,” he remarked.
While at the factory, he spotted Paxton and acknowledged, “I didn’t even know he was here.” However, he asserted, “We got to get this guy elected.”
Trump also took aim at Talarico, reviving the unfounded claim that the Democratic candidate is a vegan. “You got a freako running against him,” Trump stated. “He doesn’t eat meat. He’s a vegan.”
“Electing someone like that would be a disaster for your state and the country. We need those votes, and I’m here to make sure we win,” he added.
During the visit, Trump was joined by Dennis Rodman, a former NBA star, as they discussed renewing diplomatic relations with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Notably, this stop in Durant, Oklahoma, holds significance as Rodman’s college town.
Trump labeled Rodman “the greatest rebounder,” recounting their connection to Kim Jong Un and how Rodman has a unique understanding of him.
Amidst all the campaigning, Trump promised to fully invest in the midterm elections, stating, “My heart’s in it. I would be home right now if it wasn’t. My heart is in it like never before.”
