Trump-backed Ken Paxton ousts John Cornyn in heated Texas primary after scandal-plagued campaign
Race had wide implications for Trump’s strength heading into midterms, where Paxton will face Democratic candidate James Talarico
TL;DR
- Ken Paxton, endorsed by Donald Trump, defeated incumbent John Cornyn in the Texas Republican primary runoff for senator.
- Paxton's victory suggests that Trump's support can help scandal-plagued candidates win in deep red states.
- Cornyn acknowledged his defeat and pledged to support the GOP ticket in the general election.
- The race has implications for Trump's strength in the upcoming midterm elections, where Paxton will face Democrat James Talarico.
- Paxton has a history of conservative leadership and has faced impeachment and felony indictments, though he was acquitted and a case was dismissed.
- Cornyn, while also a conservative, was targeted by Trump for perceived disloyalty.
- Texas remains a conservative state, with the primary showcasing the importance of hot-button issues for the Republican base.