Texas Sen. Cornyn, facing possible 2026 primary challenge from Trump ally Paxton, lands Thune endorsement
As Sen. John Cornyn of Texas prepares for what could be his toughest re-election battle yet, he received a major endorsement from Senate Majority Leader John Thune. Thune, who defeated Cornyn in the Senate GOP race last year, praised Cornyn as one of the most effective and respected conservative leaders in the country. He emphasized the importance of keeping Cornyn in the Senate to continue delivering on President Trump’s agenda.
Cornyn officially launched his 2026 re-election campaign, seeking a fifth six-year term representing Texas in the Senate. However, he may face a primary challenge from Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, a conservative and Trump ally who has been vocal about his discontent with Cornyn’s leadership.
Paxton has criticized Cornyn for not representing the conservative values of Texans and accused him of not being a true ally of Trump. He has labeled Cornyn a “RINO” and has hinted at a possible Senate run. However, toppling Cornyn in a GOP primary would likely require a significant financial investment, and it remains to be seen if Paxton can raise the necessary funds for victory.
Cornyn, who initially clashed with Trump during the early stages of the 2024 Republican presidential nomination race, has since aligned himself with the former president. He has been supportive of Trump’s cabinet nominees and agenda since his return to the White House. In his campaign launch video, Cornyn highlights his track record of supporting Trump during his first term and asks for support to continue their work together.
As a former state senator, Texas Supreme Court justice, and state attorney general, Cornyn has a long history in Texas politics. He first won election to the U.S. Senate in 2002 and has since become a prominent figure in the Republican Party.
With Thune’s endorsement and Trump’s continued support, Cornyn is gearing up for a challenging re-election campaign. As he faces potential competition from Paxton, the race for the Texas Senate seat is sure to be closely watched in the coming months.
