U.S. Senator John Cornyn and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton engaged in a heated exchange during the contentious Republican primary race, which is set to culminate on March 3, 2024. As Cornyn seeks reelection for a fifth term, he faces significant challenges from Paxton and U.S. Representative Wesley Hunt, with expectations that the race may lead to a runoff in May.
The animosity between the candidates was evident as Paxton criticized Cornyn’s political relevance, asserting that his career was effectively over. In response, Cornyn’s campaign took a personal jab at Paxton, referencing his recent divorce and infidelity allegations. The exchange highlights the increasingly bitter nature of the Republican primary, as both candidates vie for the party’s nomination for the U.S. Senate.
In a statement, Paxton claimed, “Cornyn’s career is done and everyone knows it. He’s stolen over $50 million from races in North Carolina, Maine, Michigan, and Georgia, and what does he have to show for it?” This pointed critique exemplifies the high stakes of the primary, where established figures like Cornyn face challenges from more populist candidates.
Cornyn’s campaign responded sharply to Paxton’s comments, with senior adviser Matt Mackowiak stating, “Sen. Cornyn believes character matters. In this primary, character is on the ballot.” This statement reflects a broader strategy to underline ethical concerns surrounding Paxton, especially in light of his personal controversies.
The exchange over Paxton’s divorce from his estranged wife, Angela, served as a focal point in the debate. Cornyn’s campaign recalled Paxton’s request during divorce proceedings for Angela to “take nothing,” linking it to his political ambitions. Mackowiak further emphasized this point by saying, “Ken, when this is over, you will have nothing. Which turns out to be the same thing you offered to give Angela in divorce proceedings, after you cheated on her multiple times.”
This isn’t the first time Cornyn has made light of Paxton’s personal life. Last year, he humorously referenced a Coldplay concert policy that aimed to eliminate distractions, hinting at Paxton’s romantic indiscretions. This tactic appears to resonate with some voters, as recent polls show a competitive landscape for the Republican nomination.
As the primary approaches, significant financial resources are reportedly flowing into the race. Cornyn’s campaign is notably backed by a large war chest, but some establishment Republicans express concerns that his financial advantage may not be enough to overcome Paxton’s popularity among the party base. These dynamics suggest a potentially unpredictable outcome for the primary.
In summary, the exchange between Cornyn and Paxton reflects the intensity of the current Republican primary in Texas. With personal scandals entering the fray and character becoming a central theme, both candidates will likely intensify their campaigns as voters prepare to head to the polls in less than a month. As the race heats up, it remains to be seen how these controversies will influence voter sentiment and turnout in the crucial primary election.
