Texas AG Paxton Gains MAGA Support in Senate Race Against Cornyn

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton received strong backing from conservative activists at CPAC as he faces Senator John Cornyn in a Republican runoff election. Paxton's support from the Trump base could help overcome Cornyn's fundraising advantage and establishment backing.

GRAPEVINE, Texas — Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton commanded center stage at the Conservative Political Action Conference, where hundreds of conservative activists from across the nation rallied behind him as their preferred Republican candidate for U.S. Senate.

Following private meetings with his supporters, Paxton capped off his day by delivering the keynote address to thousands gathered at the Ronald Reagan dinner.

The attorney general expressed gratitude to attendees for their loyalty during his legislative impeachment ordeal four years ago, from which he was ultimately cleared of corruption allegations.

“I want you to know, there’s only one reason I got through all that, and it’s by the grace of God,” Paxton declared Friday evening as enthusiastic applause filled the venue. “He absolutely delivered me, and he used to people of Texas to deliver me.”

Should Paxton secure the Republican nomination, it will likely stem from enthusiasm in gatherings such as this. He faces a contentious runoff against Senator John Cornyn following their failure to achieve a decisive victory in the March 3 primary. While Cornyn commands significantly greater financial resources and Washington establishment support, Paxton’s proven political resilience and strong grassroots Republican connections may carry him to victory in the May 26 contest.

Former President Donald Trump indicated weeks ago he would back either Paxton or Cornyn, though no endorsement has materialized. Nevertheless, Paxton has successfully demonstrated his credentials with the party’s conservative wing.

Cornyn was notably absent from CPAC, held at a resort and convention facility outside Dallas, while speakers throughout the event praised Paxton.

“Ken Paxton is emblematic of the grassroots of the MAGA movement across the nation,” declared Steve Bannon, former Trump advisor and host of the “War Room” podcast, referencing Trump’s “Make America Great Again” motto from his 2016 presidential campaign.

During Friday’s proceedings, CPAC senior fellow Mercedes Schlapp conducted an informal audience poll. When she requested applause for Paxton, the crowd erupted in cheers. Her mention of Cornyn drew scattered boos.

Cornyn led the primary field, which included U.S. Representative Wesley Hunt. Paxton’s camp briefly worried Trump might endorse the sitting senator, which would have pleased party leadership who consider Cornyn the stronger contender against Democratic candidate James Talarico.

However, Paxton gained Trump’s favor by championing the SAVE Act, legislation requiring stringent citizenship verification for voter registration. This measure represents a Trump priority that has stalled in the Senate due to Republican leadership’s reluctance to eliminate the filibuster.

Joe Ropar, a 72-year-old defense contractor attending CPAC, called Paxton’s strategy “brilliant.” Despite Cornyn’s subsequent willingness to modify filibuster procedures, Ropar believes Paxton demonstrated superior Trump allegiance.

“Cornyn’s trying to change his stripes now,” Ropar observed. “It’s too little too late.”

Paxton shares another political parallel with Trump: both have characterized themselves as victims of political targeting. While Paxton endured one impeachment and acquittal, Trump experienced the process twice during his presidency.

James Schaare, a 61-year-old church music director from Euless, Texas, said this resilience proves Paxton represents the correct choice.

“In Paxton’s career, he’s been faithful to what he’s said he’s going to do,” Schaare stated.

Various conservative Republicans harbor additional grievances against Cornyn. They recall his initial opposition to Trump’s border wall proposal in 2016, his support for gun control measures following the 2022 Uvalde school tragedy, and his dismissive comments regarding Trump’s 2024 presidential bid.

Retired educator Valerie Burge, 58, said she supported Cornyn in the primary due to his extensive experience.

“But I’m not sure about the runoff,” she admitted. “It might be time for something new.”

Barbara Palmer, a 65-year-old attorney, argued Cornyn has served too long. His career spans roles as judge, state supreme court justice, state attorney general, and now he seeks a fifth Senate term.

“It’s just time for a change,” Palmer concluded.