Texas Senator John Cornyn is gearing up for what could be his toughest primary challenge yet as he faces Attorney General Ken Paxton in the upcoming GOP primary. With his political future on the line, Cornyn called the race “a test of character” and emphasized that his ability to continue serving Texas hinges on his trustworthiness.
Cornyn explained, “This is a test of character, and whether character still matters,” reflecting on the stakes of the primary, which will determine whether he earns a chance for a fifth term in office.
Paxton’s Strong Support Base
Despite facing significant legal challenges and controversies, Paxton maintains a strong support base, and recent polls show the race tightening. A poll conducted by Texas Southern University and YouGov in August showed Paxton leading Cornyn by five percentage points, 44% to 39%, with 17% of voters still undecided.
Cornyn acknowledged Paxton’s backing among certain voters, saying, “There is certainly some support for the Attorney General out there based on this perception that he is some sort of MAGA warrior and that he is favored even by President Trump.”
However, Cornyn argued that President Trump’s primary concern is his legislative agenda, and he believes his voting record supporting Trump’s policies will resonate with voters as the race progresses.
Social Media Clash
The two Republican heavyweights have used social media as a battleground, taking shots at each other in public forums. Recently, Paxton criticized Cornyn on X (formerly Twitter), calling him “not a MAGA Republican, but he plays one on TV.”
Cornyn responded with his own critique, referencing Paxton’s involvement in the controversial Ten Commandments law, which requires public schools to display a copy in classrooms. Cornyn sarcastically remarked, “Might want to brush up on the Ten Commandments, Ken,” and further accused Paxton of hypocrisy.
Cornyn elaborated on his comments, saying, “All ten of them,” referring to the Ten Commandments and accusing Paxton of being “self-destructive” and “reckless,” citing Paxton’s impeachment, securities fraud indictment, and personal scandals.
Democratic Contest Heats Up
As the GOP primary race intensifies, the Democratic field is also heating up. Former North Texas Congressman Colin Allred and retired NASA astronaut Terry Virts have officially entered the race for the Senate seat.
Additionally, prominent figures like former Congressman Beto O’Rourke, U.S. Representative Joaquin Castro of San Antonio, and State Representative James Talarico of Austin are all considering a run.
A recent Texas Southern University-YouGov poll found O’Rourke leading Allred by a substantial margin, 58% to 38%, should O’Rourke choose to enter the primary.
With both parties’ primaries shaping up to be fiercely competitive, all eyes will be on the March 2024 elections as Texas voters decide their next U.S. Senator.
