Texas primaries set stage for high-stakes 2026 Senate race as GOP fractures and Dem splits emerge

Early voting starts for Texas’ March primaries, pitting four-term GOP Sen. John Cornyn against Trump-aligned Attorney General Ken Paxton, with Rep. Wesley Hunt also in the mix; the race underscores a clash between establishment and MAGA factions. Democrats are divided between Jasmine Crockett and James Talarico, reflecting tensions over electability in a red-leaning state. A GOP runoff is likely in May if no candidate secures a majority, Paxton currently holding an edge in polls, and Trump’s endorsement could still influence the race.