Trump Faces Pressure to Back Ken Paxton as Texas Senate Race Tightens

Republican leaders are increasingly calling on President Donald Trump to provide financial support to Texas Senate candidate Ken Paxton, whose campaign is facing a significant fundraising disadvantage against Democratic challenger James Talarico.

Paxton secured the Republican nomination after defeating longtime Senator John Cornyn in a primary runoff with Trump’s endorsement. However, the victory has turned what was once considered a safe Republican seat into one of the most closely watched Senate races of 2026.

Fundraising Gap Raises Concerns

Talarico has emerged as a powerful fundraiser, bringing in $40 million through March and reporting $9.9 million in cash on hand. In comparison, Paxton raised $7.6 million through early May and had approximately $2.3 million available for the general election campaign.

A recent Texas Pulse poll conducted on June 9 showed the race tied, highlighting growing concerns among Republicans about retaining the seat.

Trump’s $356 Million War Chest Under Scrutiny

Attention has shifted to MAGA Inc., Trump’s political organization, which reportedly holds around $356 million in available funds. So far, the group has not committed any spending to support Paxton’s campaign.

Several Republican lawmakers and strategists believe Trump has a responsibility to help the candidate he endorsed. Some party insiders argue that Paxton’s nomination has forced Republicans to spend resources in Texas that could have been directed toward competitive races in states such as Georgia, Michigan, North Carolina, Ohio and Maine.

Texas Could Become a Major Battleground

Political analysts say Paxton’s legal controversies and lower fundraising totals have created vulnerabilities in a state Republicans traditionally dominate. At the same time, Talarico has gained attention by combining his Christian faith with economic messages aimed at working-class voters.

Another possible source of support is Texas Governor Greg Abbott. His political committee reported nearly $96 million in cash on hand earlier this year, though his team has not indicated whether those funds will be used to directly assist Paxton.

With Republicans holding a narrow 53-47 Senate majority, the outcome in Texas could play an important role in determining control of the chamber and the political landscape during the final years of Trump’s presidency.