Cornyn Flatlines in Polls Ahead of Texas GOP Primary | RealClearPolitics

RealClearPolitics

by Nathan Gonzales, Roll Call

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Sen. John Cornyn is facing a significant challenge in the race for the Texas GOP gubernatorial nomination as his polling numbers remain stagnant ahead of the critical primary elections. Despite being considered a favorite among establishment Republicans, Cornyn's lack of momentum has raised concerns about his ability to secure the nomination against growing contenders like former Sen. Ted Cruz and attorney General Ken Paxton. His flatlining in the polls suggests that while he maintains name recognition and financial backing, his campaign is struggling to connect with voters or generate excitement. The Texas GOP primary is shaping up as a competitive and unpredictable race, with several candidates vying for the nomination. Cornyn's lack of progress in the polls could indicate voter fatigue or dissatisfaction with his political brand, particularly among conservative base voters who are increasingly demanding stronger stances on issues like border security and economic policies. Meanwhile, Cruz and Paxton are gaining traction by leveraging their各自 strengths—Cruz’s national visibility and policy expertise, and Paxton’s legal background and grassroots support. The stakes for Cornyn are high as he seeks to maintain his political relevance and avoid becoming a casualty of the Texas GOP’s internal divisions. If he fails to regain momentum, it could signal broader challenges for establishment candidates in a state where conservative voters increasingly favor outsider or anti-establishment candidates. This dynamic not only shapes the future of Texas politics but also has national implications, as the winner of the primary will likely play a significant role in shaping the 2026 Republican ticket and influencing key policy debates at both the state and federal levels.

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Originally published on RealClearPolitics on 2/20/2026