Texas AG Paxton Vows to Channel Cruz if Elected to Senate

Paxton promises to fight for Texas values over Washington interests in Senate race against Cornyn.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 3:51am

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Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton vowed to 'act more like Ted Cruz' if elected to the U.S. Senate, as he laid into his opponent in the upcoming May runoff, incumbent Senator John Cornyn (R-TX). Paxton, the keynote speaker at the Conservative Political Action Conference's Ronald Reagan dinner in Dallas, positioned himself as a tested conservative who would bring a fresh perspective to the upper chamber.

Why it matters

Paxton's promise to emulate Cruz's combative style in the Senate could signal a shift in Texas politics, as the state's Republican leadership has traditionally favored a more moderate approach. This race could also have national implications, as the Senate balance of power hangs in the balance.

The details

In his speech, Paxton vowed to fight for 'Texas values' over 'Washington interests' if elected to the Senate. He painted himself as a proven conservative who would bring a new voice to the upper chamber, in contrast to the more establishment-aligned Cornyn.

  • The Texas primary runoff election is scheduled for May 2026.

The players

Ken Paxton

The current Attorney General of Texas, who is challenging incumbent Senator John Cornyn in the Republican primary runoff.

John Cornyn

The incumbent Republican U.S. Senator from Texas, who is facing a primary challenge from Attorney General Ken Paxton.

Ted Cruz

The Republican U.S. Senator from Texas, known for his combative style in the Senate.

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What they’re saying

“We need a Senate who takes care of us and we need a senator in Texas who will fight for Texas values over Washington interests.”

— Ken Paxton, Texas Attorney General

What’s next

The Texas Republican primary runoff election is scheduled for May 2026, where Paxton will face off against incumbent Senator John Cornyn.

The takeaway

Paxton's promise to emulate the combative style of Senator Ted Cruz could signal a shift in Texas Republican politics, as the state's GOP leadership has traditionally favored a more moderate approach. This race could have national implications, as the balance of power in the Senate hangs in the balance.