President Trump Remains Neutral Ahead of Early Voting
President Donald Trump has chosen not to endorse any candidate in Texas’ hotly contested Republican Senate primary. Speaking to reporters on Air Force One, he said, “I just haven’t made a decision on that race yet. I like all three of them.”
Trump was referring to incumbent Sen. John Cornyn, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, and two-term Rep. Wesley Hunt. Early voting began ahead of the March 3 primary, setting the stage for a contentious nomination battle.
Key Contenders and Their Trump Ties
Cornyn, backed by Senate Majority Leader John Thune and the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC), has emphasized his loyalty to Trump. “I get along well with the president,” Cornyn told Fox News Digital last year. “I’ve supported him 99.3% of the time and will continue to do so.”
Paxton and Hunt, however, challenge Cornyn’s MAGA credentials. Paxton, a longtime Trump ally, and Hunt, a West Point graduate and Army veteran, label Cornyn a RINO, suggesting he is insufficiently aligned with Trump’s agenda.
Risks for GOP and Potential Runoff
Establishment Republicans worry a Paxton win could jeopardize the Senate seat in November, citing his legal troubles and ongoing divorce as potential liabilities. Polls show Paxton and Cornyn neck-and-neck, with Hunt trailing.
Trump noted that the nomination fight still has “got a ways to go.” If no candidate surpasses 50% in March, the contest will advance to a May 27 runoff.
Democratic Field Also Set
On the Democratic side, progressive Rep. Jasmine Crockett and state Rep. James Talarico, a former teacher and seminarian, are vying for their party’s nomination. Both are seen as emerging figures in Texas politics.
Governor Abbott Also Stays Neutral
Governor Greg Abbott has likewise remained neutral. “I know all these people. They’re all friends of mine, and I’m not going to be making any endorsements,” he told reporters while casting his early vote.
