POLITICS

Trump Endorsement Intensifies High-Stakes Texas Senate Runoff Race

PUBLISHED May 18, 2026, 9:57 AM ET

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Sources: 11

Left 9%

Center 82%

Right 9%

Sources: 11

ALLEN, Texas. President Donald Trump endorsed Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton on Tuesday at a campaign event in Allen, amplifying Paxton's push against incumbent Sen. John Cornyn as early voting began this week ahead of the May 26 Republican U.S. Senate runoff; the contest follows a March 3 primary where no candidate won a majority. The endorsement energized Paxton supporters — who cheered and danced at the event — and landed as polls conducted April 22–May 6 showed Cornyn and Paxton running nearly even in hypothetical November matchups with Democrat James Talarico. Political analysts warned the divisive runoff could weaken the eventual nominee and influence general-election dynamics heading into November.

By Sarah Whitman | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

March 3, 2026: Texas primary held; Cornyn and Paxton advanced to runoff.
April 22–May 6, 2026: Statewide poll of 1,223 likely voters conducted; margin ±2.8 points.
This week (prior to May 26): Early voting for the Republican runoff commenced.
Tuesday (week of May 26): President Trump publicly endorsed Ken Paxton at an Allen event.
May 26, 2026: Scheduled Republican U.S. Senate runoff between Cornyn and Paxton.

News Intelligence

This Texas Senate runoff could influence your rights and services. The winner will help shape laws on healthcare, taxes, and more. Keep an eye on the May 26th runoff results.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 1
Left Leaning:: 1
Neutral:: 9

Who Benefited

President Donald Trump and Ken Paxton benefited politically from the endorsement, energizing Paxton's base, consolidating MAGA-aligned support, and increasing Paxton's momentum ahead of the May 26 Republican runoff.

Who Impacted

Sen. John Cornyn and establishment Republicans suffered increased intra-party division and potential damage to general-election prospects if the runoff winner emerges weakened and the party remains fractured.

Media Bias