WATCH: Republican Ken Paxton speaks after losing Texas Senate race

Ken Paxton spoke briefly after losing the Texas US Senate race to James Talarico, saying he would pray for his opponent and hoped he would serve Texas and the nation well. The result marks a significant shift in the state, giving Democrats their first statewide office victory in Texas since 1994.

Paxton also recognised Republican losses elsewhere, calling it a difficult night while saying the election was not over. His campaign faced questions about corruption, and about two-thirds of voters said he lacked the personal character to serve in the Senate, according to an AP Voter Poll. Voters were roughly split on whether Talarico’s views were too extreme.