MAGA loves scandal-ridden Ken Paxton. Can they get him to the Senate?

Politico

by By Liz Crampton

March 3, 2026

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Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, a polarizing figure known for his relentless legal battles and ties to the MAGA movement, is poised to challenge Senator John Cornyn in a high-stakes GOP primary race. Despite facing significant political baggage, including an impeachment by the state House, a federal securities fraud investigation, and personal scandals like an alleged extramarital affair, Paxton remains a strong contender. His rise reflects the growing influence of far-right ideology in Texas politics, with supporters viewing him as a resilient warrior for conservative causes. Paxton’s career has been marked by high-profile legal battles, including efforts to overturn the 2020 election results and expanding religious influence in schools. His unwavering stance against Democratic-led policies, particularly in cities like Houston, has endeared him to MAGA loyalists. While critics argue that his track record of scandals and ethical concerns makes him unfit for public office, supporters like former Tarrant County Republican Party chair Bo French see him as a dedicated fighter for the conservative cause. This sentiment is amplified by the broader shift within the Texas GOP toward more radical positions. Meanwhile, Cornyn faces an uphill battle against Paxton’s grassroots momentum. Many Texas Republicans remain angered by Cornyn’s vote in favor of a bipartisan gun control package following the tragic Uvalde school shooting. His public criticism of Paxton and his support for moderate policies have alienated key segments of the party base, leading to significant headwinds in the primary race. With the possibility of a runoff election looming, the contest highlights the tensions within the GOP over generational change and ideological direction. This race is not just a local political battle but a broader marker of the national shift toward far-right politics. Paxton’s rise underscores the power of grassroots movements like MAGA in shaping Republican politics, challenging establishment figures like Cornyn who have long represented more moderate traditions. The outcome of this primary could signal whether the GOP will continue to move further to the right or if there is still a viable path for more centrist candidates within the party. For readers interested in politics, this story illustrates the ongoing struggle between

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Originally published on Politico on 3/3/2026