Ken Paxton captivated attendees at CPAC, establishing himself as the favored candidate for the U.S. Senate among grassroots conservatives. Enthusiastic cheers echoed from activists who treated him like the party’s next nominee.
Privately, Paxton engaged with supporters, delivered a keynote address at a prestigious dinner, and participated in a reception where fans eagerly sought photos and autographs. In stark contrast, the room erupted in boos when Sen. John Cornyn’s name was mentioned.
Paxton’s support stems from the GOP base, the same group that revitalized his political career following impeachment and subsequent acquittal on corruption charges three years prior.
During his Friday night address, he acknowledged, “There’s only one reason I got through all that, and it’s by the grace of God,” prompting a wave of applause throughout the hall.
Neither candidate garnered sufficient backing in the March 3 primary to avoid a runoff on May 26. While Cornyn has a significant fundraising advantage and support from party leaders in Washington, Paxton is banking on his grassroots enthusiasm.
The primary winner will take on Democrat James Talarico in a highly scrutinized race as Republicans seek to uphold their congressional majority.
President Trump has indicated he would endorse one of the candidates, though no decision has been made. Paxton has closely aligned himself with Trump’s policies, resonateing deeply within the conservative base.
Luke Brown, a 21-year-old supporter, stated, “The real benefit of Paxton is that he is more an ally of Trump. There’s got to be a change for newer conservatives.” He added respect for Cornyn but emphasized the need for a more conservative alternative.
Despite Cornyn finishing first in the primary, Paxton quickly took the initiative by supporting the SAVE Act, aimed at enforcing stricter proof of citizenship for voting—an issue that is a priority for Trump but has faced hurdles in the Senate.
Paxton verbally challenged Cornyn, suggesting that he may step aside if the legislation passes, and labeled him a “coward” for his previous stance. Shortly after, Cornyn altered his position, expressing support for necessary changes to Senate voting rules in an op-ed.
Paxton made sure to highlight this shift to his supporters, stating, “Unfortunately, John Cornyn has never been focused on this issue until right now, when I called him out on it.”
