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Texas Republicans Fear Losing Senate Seat to Democrats
Attorney General Ken Paxton's controversial tenure raises concerns about GOP's chances in the general election
Feb. 24, 2026 at 12:30am
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The upcoming Texas Senate race has Republicans on edge, as two rising Democratic stars, Rep. Jasmine Crockett and state legislator James Talarico, pose a serious threat to the GOP's hold on the seat currently occupied by Senator John Cornyn. The potential nomination of the embattled Attorney General Ken Paxton as the Republican candidate has further complicated the party's prospects, with Cornyn warning of a 'massacre' if Paxton is the nominee.
Why it matters
The Texas Senate race is seen as a crucial battleground in the national political landscape, with the potential to shift the balance of power in the U.S. Senate. The Republican Party's concerns about losing this traditionally conservative state highlight the growing influence of progressive candidates and the backlash against controversial figures like Paxton within the GOP.
The details
Paxton, who has faced a litany of allegations including corruption, incompetence, and personal misconduct, is seen as a liability for the Republican Party in the general election. His turbulent tenure as Attorney General, marked by scandals and legal troubles, has made him a polarizing figure even within his own party. Meanwhile, Crockett and Talarico, both rising Democratic stars, have gained momentum and are posing a serious challenge to the GOP's hold on the seat.
- The Texas Senate primary election is scheduled for Monday, February 24, 2026.
- Cornyn issued his warning to supporters in Fort Worth, Texas, as ballots started to come in this week.
The players
John Cornyn
The incumbent Republican U.S. Senator from Texas, who is facing a primary challenge from Ken Paxton.
Ken Paxton
The current Texas Attorney General, who is seeking the Republican nomination for the U.S. Senate seat. Paxton has faced numerous allegations of corruption, incompetence, and personal misconduct during his tenure.
Jasmine Crockett
A Democratic U.S. Representative from Texas, who is running for the U.S. Senate seat.
James Talarico
A Democratic state legislator in Texas, who is also running for the U.S. Senate seat.
What they’re saying
“If Ken Paxton is the nominee, we could well experience a massacre and the first Democrat elected since 1994 in the state of Texas.”
— John Cornyn, U.S. Senator
“Texas cannot afford to be a gamble in the high-stakes midterms.”
— Republican National Senate Campaign Arm
What’s next
The Texas Senate primary election will be held on Monday, February 24, 2026, and the results will determine the Republican and Democratic nominees for the general election.
The takeaway
The Texas Senate race has become a high-stakes battle, with the potential to shift the balance of power in the U.S. Senate. The Republican Party's concerns about losing this traditionally conservative state highlight the growing influence of progressive candidates and the backlash against controversial figures within the GOP.
