Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton's decision to run for the U.S. Senate continues one of the most consistent streaks in Texas politics. Every Texas attorney general since 1972 has used the position as a springboard to higher office by either running for governor or the United States Senate.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton launched his long-anticipated campaign Tuesday for the 2026 Senate race to challenge Sen. John Cornyn, settling up what is expected to be a bitter and expensive primary that some fear could hurt Republicans in the general election.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s decision to challenge Sen. John Cornyn sets up what’s likely to be a bitter and expensive Republican primary – and a battle for President Donald Trump’s endorsement.