Two prominent Texas House Republicans, Rep. Lance Gooden and Rep. Troy Nehls, have recently endorsed Ken Paxton’s 2026 Senate bid, signaling a pivotal shift in the state’s GOP primary. Gooden, a staunch Trump ally, praised Paxton’s conservative credentials and commitment to Trump’s agenda, while Nehls highlighted Paxton’s determination as a ‘bulldog’ for the Senate. This move comes as Paxton, a well-known MAGA firebrand, launches his campaign against longtime Sen. John Cornyn, with whom he has been a vocal ideological rival.
Gooden’s endorsement follows Paxton’s recent launch of his 2026 Senate campaign, which was widely anticipated. Paxton, known for his strong support of President Donald Trump, has repeatedly criticized Cornyn for allegedly not fully embracing Trump’s policies. His campaign rhetoric emphasizes a need for ‘change in Texas,’ with a focus on securing the border and defending Republican values.
While Cornyn has secured backing from key national figures such as Senate Majority Leader John Thune and the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC), led by Sen. Tim Scott, the support for Paxton from within the Texas GOP indicates a growing faction within the party that favors a more populist, hardline stance. The potential for a costly and contentious primary is evident as both camps may mobilize substantial resources to sway the outcome.
The endorsement of Trump’s former allies adds to the complexity of the race. Although Trump has not yet publicly endorsed a candidate, his long-standing relationship with Paxton could play a crucial role in determining the primary’s trajectory. With significant stakes for both candidates, the upcoming Senate race is poised to become one of the most high-profile and financially intense races in the upcoming cycle.