Texas Senate primary nerves: Paxton-Cornyn showdown could shape November

GOP insiders fear the Texas Senate primary could be unexpectedly competitive: Ken Paxton and John Cornyn are seen as the top two in the Republican field, likely forcing a May 26 runoff if neither breaks a majority, while Democrats James Talarico and Jasmine Crockett battle in a race with shifting polling. Paxton is viewed as a weaker November candidate than Cornyn, prompting national groups to spend to influence outcomes and even boost Crockett behind the scenes. Trump’s endorsement of Cornyn remains uncertain and could alter fundraising and momentum as the race heads to a high-stakes general election.