Paxton Primary Win Opens Texas Senate Race for Democrats
5 verified7 unconfirmed
Ken Paxton won the Republican Senate primary in Texas, defeating incumbent Senator John Cornyn. Paxton, the state attorney general, now faces Democratic state Senator James Talarico in the November general election. Both sources report that Democrats see a better-than-usual opportunity to win the Texas Senate seat, citing Paxton’s legal and personal controversies. Paxton was impeached by the Texas House on bribery and corruption charges in 2023 but later acquitted by the state Senate. His wife has filed for divorce on “biblical grounds” amid allegations of infidelity. Talarico, a 37-year-old state lawmaker and aspiring Presbyterian minister, has made statements on gender identity that he has since walked back. Republicans are preparing an aggressive attack campaign, while Democrats aim to capitalize on Paxton’s scandals.
What’s verified
Ken Paxton won the Republican Senate primary in Texas, defeating incumbent Senator John Cornyn.
Paxton was impeached by the Texas House on bribery and corruption charges in 2023 but was acquitted by the Texas Senate.
Paxton’s wife, Angela Paxton, filed for divorce on “biblical grounds” amid allegations of infidelity.
The Democratic nominee is Texas state Senator James Talarico.
Both sources indicate that Democrats see a better-than-usual chance to win the Texas Senate seat in the general election.
Not yet confirmed
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear stated that “Texas is in play” for Democrats and that Paxton is corrupt; he also said he has not ruled out a 2028 presidential run. (Single source)
Former Vice President Mike Pence said he could not vote for the Democratic nominee in Texas and expressed confidence Republicans would hold the Senate. (Single source)
Talarico has previously stated that “God is nonbinary” and that there are six biological sexes, but later said there are two sexes and that he regrets some past statements. (Single source)
A Trump adviser falsely claimed on social media that Talarico is transgender; one source noted that Talarico is not transgender. (Single source)
Paxton was indicted on securities fraud charges that were later dismissed after he completed community service and took an ethics class. (Single source)
President Trump endorsed Paxton late in the primary race and promised to hold rallies. (Single source)
Specific figures such as 778,139 voters who did not participate in the Republican runoff and a 36% turnout decline were reported. (Single source)
Misconceptions
One source reported that a Trump adviser falsely claimed the Democratic nominee, James Talarico, is transgender and noted that he is not. The same source reported that Talarico has walked back past statements on gender identity and biological sex.
Key figures
Ken Paxton, Texas Attorney General and Republican Senate nominee
John Cornyn, incumbent Republican Senator from Texas
James Talarico, Democratic state Senator and nominee
Andy Beshear, Governor of Kentucky
Mike Pence, former Vice President
Angela Paxton, Texas state Senator and Ken Paxton’s wife
Donald Trump, former President
Stephen Miller, Trump adviser
Matt Angle, Texas Democratic strategist
Vinny Minchillo, Texas Republican strategist
Sources: NBC News, theatlantic.com
