Trump Holds Off on Endorsements in Key Texas Races

Former president visits Texas but declines to back candidates in Senate, House contests

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Former President Donald Trump traveled to Corpus Christi, Texas on Friday to rally Republican voters, but notably did not issue endorsements in several high-profile GOP primary races across the state. Trump refrained from backing candidates in the U.S. Senate race as well as key House contests, including the race to replace retiring Congressman Jodey Arrington.

Why it matters

Trump's endorsements have carried significant weight in Republican primaries, so his decision not to weigh in on these Texas races is seen as a strategic move that could impact the outcome. The lack of a Trump endorsement leaves the door open for other GOP factions to assert their influence in these contests.

The details

Ahead of his Texas visit, Trump took to social media to endorse a number of Republican candidates up and down the ballot. However, he notably did not issue an endorsement in the crowded primary race for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by John Cornyn, who is retiring. Trump has said the three GOP candidates vying for the nomination are all his "friends and supporters," but some believe he could still weigh in on a potential runoff. Trump also declined to endorse Rep. Tony Gonzalez, whom he has backed in the past, as well as the race between Rep. Dan Crenshaw and State Rep. Steve Toth. Additionally, the former president did not pick a favorite in the 7-way Republican primary to replace Arrington in the 19th Congressional District.

  • President Trump visited Corpus Christi, Texas on Friday, February 27, 2026.
  • The Texas primary election is scheduled for Tuesday, March 3, 2026.

The players

Donald Trump

The former president of the United States who retains significant influence over the Republican party.

John Cornyn

The retiring U.S. Senator from Texas.

Tony Gonzalez

A Republican U.S. Representative from Texas's 23rd congressional district.

Dan Crenshaw

A Republican U.S. Representative from Texas's 2nd congressional district.

Steve Toth

A Republican member of the Texas House of Representatives challenging Crenshaw.

Jodey Arrington

A retiring Republican U.S. Representative from Texas's 19th congressional district.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Texas primary election is scheduled for Tuesday, March 3, 2026, and the results of these key Republican races will provide insight into the direction of the party in the state.

The takeaway

Trump's decision to withhold endorsements in several high-profile Texas Republican primaries suggests he may be taking a more hands-off approach in these contests, allowing other GOP factions to assert their influence. This could have significant implications for the future direction of the party in the state.