politics
March 29, 2026
Ken Paxton surges at CPAC as Texas Senate runoff looms
GRAPEVINE, Texas — Hundreds of conservative activists at the Conservative Political Action Conference embraced Ken Paxton as the GOP’s clear pick for Senate in Texas, handing him a decisive straw poll win and the conference’s endorsement.
TL;DR
- Ken Paxton won a decisive straw poll at CPAC with 67% of the vote, earning the conference's endorsement for the Texas Senate race.
- Incumbent Sen. John Cornyn received 21% in the poll, and he did not attend the CPAC gathering.
- The race between Paxton and Cornyn, heading to a May runoff, showcases a division between grassroots energy and establishment backing.
- Paxton's platform centers on election integrity and alignment with Donald Trump's policies, including the SAVE Act.
- Cornyn's campaign highlights his institutional advantages, fundraising edge, and support from GOP establishment figures.
- Paxton has drawn parallels between his own impeachment acquittal and Trump's legal battles, framing himself as a fighter.
- Some attendees expressed concerns about Cornyn's voting record on issues like gun control and his past disagreements with Trump.
- Cornyn allies and the NRSC argue that Cornyn is the more electable candidate and a stronger ally to Trump.
- Senator Ted Cruz is remaining neutral in the race but expressed concerns about the general election's competitiveness.
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