Trump Declines to Endorse Either Candidate in Texas Senate Race as Cornyn and Paxton Head to Runoff
Both candidates remain on the ballot as their increasingly personal battle extends into May
The decision not to weigh in is notable given Trump's history of using endorsements to shape Republican primaries. Both Cornyn, the current senator, and Paxton, the controversial former attorney general, had aggressively courted Trump's support.
The race has become one of the most expensive and personal primary battles in recent Texas history, with both campaigns spending heavily on attack ads. Cornyn has positioned himself as the experienced legislator, while Paxton has run as the MAGA warrior willing to fight the establishment.
Trump's neutrality may reflect a calculation that either candidate would be a reliable ally, or a desire to avoid alienating either camp within the Texas Republican base.
Analysis
Why This Matters
Texas Senate races rarely attract this level of national attention. Trump's non-endorsement signals the complexity of Republican factional politics even in the party's strongest state.
Background
Cornyn has served in the Senate since 2002. Paxton was acquitted in his impeachment trial and has positioned himself as the outsider candidate.
Key Perspectives
Cornyn allies see the non-endorsement as a win since Paxton needed Trump's backing. Paxton supporters argue Trump's silence is a rebuke of the establishment.
What to Watch
The May runoff dynamics and whether Trump eventually weighs in as the race tightens.