Texas GOP Senate race heads to runoff after no candidate clears 50%

Texas Sen. John Cornyn and Attorney General Ken Paxton will compete in a May 26 runoff after none of the three major Republican candidates in Tuesday’s primary received more than 50% of the vote, according to the Associated Press.

Cornyn finished first and will face Paxton, who came in second. Rep. Wesley Hunt placed third. On the Democratic side, state Rep. James Talarico and Rep. Jasmine Crockett are vying for the nomination. Both aim to become the first Democrat elected to the Senate from Texas in nearly four decades.

The Texas race is among several nationwide that could influence whether Republicans maintain their Senate majority, currently 53-47. The primary campaign saw nearly $100 million spent on ads attacking Paxton and Hunt, with Cornyn highlighting scandals and legal issues surrounding Paxton.

Cornyn, who has emphasized his conservative record, told supporters that the runoff offers an opportunity to secure victory. Paxton, a Trump-backed candidate, maintained confidence and pointed to recent polls suggesting he has an edge over Cornyn. Rep. Hunt acknowledged the negative ads but expressed determination to continue in the race.

President Donald Trump did not endorse in the primary but attended an event in Corpus Christi, Texas, where he praised the candidates and called the race “interesting.” Top GOP strategists and outside groups have signaled continued support for Cornyn, while some donors support Paxton’s bid. The outcome of the runoff could shape the balance of power in the Senate heading into the midterm elections.

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