A focus group of 12 Texas voters who supported Donald Trump in 2024 expressed strong opposition to Republican Senate candidate Ken Paxton, describing him as corrupt and personally objectionable. Some said Republicans had chosen the wrong candidate and suggested that John Cornyn, whom Paxton defeated in the primary, would have been more likely to beat Democrat James Talarico, raising concerns that Paxton could jeopardise a traditionally Republican seat.

The criticism reflects Paxton’s political baggage, including his 2023 impeachment by the Republican-controlled Texas House over alleged abuse of office and improper dealings, although he was acquitted by the state Senate, as well as a securities-fraud case that ended without conviction. Seven of the 12 focus-group participants said they would have preferred Cornyn, while views of Talarico were mixed; some praised his freshness and focus on solutions, whereas others opposed his social and religious views. Republican operatives are reportedly preparing for a possible Democratic victory and an ensuing dispute over responsibility among Paxton, Trump and other party figures.