Senator Ted Cruz announced he will not endorse either candidate in the upcoming Texas Republican Senate runoff between incumbent Senator John Cornyn and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, emphasizing his close relationships with both and trusting voters to decide the outcome.
In an interview with Fox News Digital, Cruz said, “I like John. I like Ken. They’re both friends of mine. I have supported both of them in the past,” explaining his decision to stay neutral despite significant political stakes.
Contested GOP Runoff for Senate Seat
The May 26 runoff election follows the March 3 primary in which Cornyn narrowly led Paxton but failed to secure over 50% of the vote, necessitating the runoff. The winner will face Democratic state Representative James Talarico in the November general election for a seat critical to the Republican Senate majority, currently held at 53–47.
Cornyn and Paxton have engaged in a highly competitive and divisive primary battle. Cornyn’s campaign and aligned super PACs have heavily targeted Paxton, highlighting the attorney general’s legal controversies and personal scandals. In contrast, Paxton has criticized Cornyn’s conservative record and loyalty to former President Donald Trump, positioning himself as a MAGA-aligned candidate.
Trump’s Neutrality and Political Implications
Former President Trump, who commands significant influence in GOP contests, has also remained neutral despite initial suggestions he would endorse soon after the primary. Trump posted on social media intending to endorse one candidate and ask the other to drop out, but he has yet to endorse either, keeping his position ambiguous as the runoff approaches.
Paxton recently met briefly with Trump at Mar-a-Lago during a Palm Beach County GOP event, described by sources as a “check-in.” Despite this, Trump’s neutrality has energized Paxton’s supporters, many of whom hope Trump will continue to abstain from endorsing.
Polling data on the runoff is limited but indicates Paxton holds a slim lead. The race is widely seen as a contest between the Republican establishment, represented by Cornyn, and the populist MAGA wing, backing Paxton, reflecting broader ideological tensions within the GOP.
Why it matters
This runoff is pivotal for the GOP’s hold on the U.S. Senate, given the narrow current majority. The outcome will also shape the future direction of the Texas GOP and reflect the influence of MAGA-aligned candidates versus traditional party figures.
Background
John Cornyn has served multiple Senate terms and holds considerable influence within the GOP establishment, while Ken Paxton has gained national attention through legal challenges to previous Democratic administrations and a staunchly conservative platform aligned with former President Trump. Texas Democrats have struggled to capture statewide Senate seats, making this race one of the few with a potential to shift party control.
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