A new poll shows Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton with a noticeable lead over incumbent U.S. Sen. John Cornyn as the two prepare for a high-stakes Republican runoff next month.
According to the survey by Texas Public Opinion Research, Paxton is leading Cornyn 48% to 40% in the race to become the GOP nominee for U.S. Senate, with 11% still undecided, signaling continued momentum for the attorney general among Republican primary voters.
The runoff, scheduled for May 26, comes after neither candidate secured more than 50% of the vote in the March primary, forcing a head-to-head matchup between the longtime political rivals.
The race highlights a broader divide within the Texas Republican Party, with Paxton drawing strong support from more conservative, Trump-aligned voters, while Cornyn has leaned on his experience and backing from more traditional GOP figures.
Polling trends in recent months have shown a competitive contest, but multiple surveys have indicated Paxton with an edge heading into the final stretch of the campaign.
The outcome of the runoff could have major implications beyond Texas, as national Republicans weigh which candidate would be stronger in a general election matchup this fall. Party leaders have expressed concerns that a divisive primary could impact their chances of holding the seat.
The winner of the runoff will advance to the November general election in what is expected to remain a closely watched Senate contest against democrat James Talarico.
