Firebrand conservatives set to clash in GOP Texas AG debate

The high-stakes debate will feature four Republican candidates vying for the state's top legal post.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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Several firebrand conservative candidates are set to participate in a heated debate ahead of the GOP primary election for Texas attorney general. The debate, hosted by the Republican Attorneys General Association (RAGA) and moderated by conservative podcaster Allie Beth Stuckey, will feature four Republicans running for the role: Congressman Chip Roy, former Trump DOJ official Aaron Reitz, state Sen. Mayes Middleton, and state Sen. Joan Huffman. The debate is expected to focus on national legal battles the Texas AG must lead, including issues related to the border and constitutional rights.

Why it matters

The Texas attorney general plays a critical role both locally and nationally, leading legal battles that impact the entire country. This debate will provide voters with an opportunity to hear the candidates' visions and positions on key issues ahead of the primary election.

The details

The debate will be held at the Granada Theater in Dallas on Tuesday at 7 p.m. Central Time and will be streamed by Fox News Digital. The four Republican candidates vying for the role are Congressman Chip Roy, who has at times clashed with former President Trump, as well as Trump loyalists Aaron Reitz and Mayes Middleton. State Sen. Joan Huffman has emphasized respect for the rule of law in her campaign.

  • The debate will be held on Tuesday, February 18, 2026 at 7 p.m. Central Time.
  • Early voting for the GOP primary election has already begun in Texas.

The players

Chip Roy

A fourth-term Republican congressman from Texas who is running on a limited government platform. He has at times found himself at odds with former President Trump and the GOP establishment.

Aaron Reitz

A former Trump Department of Justice official and assistant attorney general under current Texas AG Ken Paxton. Reitz is running as a Trump loyalist.

Mayes Middleton

A Republican state senator and oil executive who is running on an 'America First' platform. Middleton has also positioned himself as a Trump loyalist.

Joan Huffman

A Republican state senator who has emphasized respect for the rule of law in her campaign for Texas attorney general.

Allie Beth Stuckey

A conservative podcaster and Texas native who will moderate the debate hosted by the Republican Attorneys General Association (RAGA).

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.