Texas Republican Voters Decide Senate Nominee in High-Stakes Runoff
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Texas voters are choosing the Republican nominee for U.S. Senate in a runoff election between incumbent Senator John Cornyn and state Attorney General Ken Paxton. The race, fueled by over $109 million in advertising and a late endorsement from former President Donald Trump, will determine who faces Democratic state Representative James Talarico in November. Polls close statewide at 7 p.m. local time.
Facts First
- Voters are selecting the Republican nominee for U.S. Senate in a runoff between incumbent Sen. John Cornyn and Attorney General Ken Paxton.
- The winner will face Democratic state Rep. James Talarico in the general election for the U.S. Senate seat.
- Former President Donald Trump endorsed Ken Paxton during early voting and reaffirmed his support via social media.
- Campaign advertising has exceeded $109 million, with Cornyn's side outspending Paxton's groups by almost nine-to-one over the past year.
- Polls close at 7 p.m. local time on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.
What Happened
The Republican U.S. Senate runoff election in Texas is being held on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, with Incumbent Senator John Cornyn and state Attorney General Ken Paxton as the candidates. Early voting ended on Friday, May 22. In the final days, Paxton's campaign aired ads noting Trump's endorsement, while Cornyn's campaign aired ads attacking Paxton on ethical questions. President Donald Trump endorsed Paxton and reaffirmed his support, calling Cornyn "VERY disloyal to me."
Why this Matters to You
If you are a Texas voter, this election directly determines your choices for U.S. Senator in the November general election. The outcome may influence the balance of power in the U.S. Senate, which could affect national policy on issues from the economy to healthcare. Intense advertising spending, exceeding $109 million, reflects the high stakes for both national and state political directions.
What's Next
Polls close statewide at 7 p.m. local time. The winner of the Republican runoff will face Democratic state Representative James Talarico in the general election. The ballot also includes primary runoffs for more than a dozen congressional districts and state offices. Texas law requires an automatic recount only in the event of a tie, but a losing candidate may request a recount if the margin is less than 10%. There are 161 days until the 2026 midterm elections.