Ken Paxton defeats John Cornyn in major Texas Senate runoff

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has defeated longtime Senator John Cornyn in a closely watched Republican Senate runoff that could have major implications for control of the U.S. Senate.

(NBC)- Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has defeated longtime Senator John Cornyn in a closely watched Republican Senate runoff that could have major implications for control of the U.S. Senate.

“We just sent a Texas-sized message to Washington,” Paxton told supporters after the victory.

Paxton’s win comes after he secured a last-minute endorsement from President Donald Trump, who has continued backing challengers against Republican incumbents he views as insufficiently loyal.

“The most powerful force in politics,” Paxton said of Trump’s support. “And I’m honored to have his support.”

The victory marks another success for Trump-backed candidates following recent races involving Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy and Kentucky Congressman Thomas Massie.

Cornyn, a four-term senator, emphasized his strong voting record alongside Trump while conceding defeat.

“I trust the voters of Texas, and they’ve made their decision, and I must respect it,” Cornyn said.

Paxton will now face Democrat James Talarico in the November general election.

The two candidates immediately traded attacks following the runoff results.

“My opponent is the most extreme radical the Democrats have ever nominated,” Paxton said.

Talarico fired back, calling Paxton “the most corrupt politician in America.”

Paxton enters the general election carrying political baggage from several high-profile controversies, including his 2023 impeachment by the Republican-controlled Texas House. He was later acquitted by the Texas Senate.

He has also faced public scrutiny surrounding a highly publicized divorce, in which his wife cited “biblical grounds.”

Democrats now see the race as a possible opportunity in traditionally conservative Texas, while Paxton argues he can energize Trump supporters across the state.

Even without Trump appearing on the ballot, analysts say the president’s influence over the Republican Party remains a defining force in the race.