Texas GOP Divided Over Senate Nominee Amid Infighting

WHO:

NBC News - Ken Paxton is the GOP Senate nominee.

Alternet - John Cornyn is a longtime Senator and a Republican.

Alternet - Karl Rove is mentioned as part of the GOP old guard.

Alternet - James Talarico is the Democratic nominee.

WHAT:

NBC News - Texas Republicans are divided over Ken Paxton's candidacy.

Alternet - Leaked audio reveals Paxton claiming Cornyn is not supportive of his campaign.

Alternet - A Republican involved in Paxton's campaign stated that Cornyn and Rove are working against Paxton.

Alternet - Paxton's campaign is facing challenges due to damaging leaks about his personal life.

WHERE:

NBC News - The events are taking place in Texas.

WHY:

Alternet - The GOP insiders believe Cornyn and Rove prefer to see a Democrat win rather than support Paxton.

Alternet - Cornyn lost his primary for the Republican Senate nomination to Paxton, which may have created resentment.

HOW:

Alternet - Leaked private conversations and public details about Paxton's personal life are affecting his campaign.

Alternet - Paxton's campaign is reportedly trying to smooth things over with Cornyn to gain support.

(UPDATED October 12, 2026 21:07 UTC)

Ken Paxton has emerged as the GOP Senate nominee in Texas, but his candidacy is facing significant challenges as divisions within the party become apparent. Leaked audio has surfaced, revealing Paxton's claims that longtime Senator John Cornyn and GOP strategist Karl Rove are not supportive of his campaign, with insiders suggesting they might prefer a Democratic victory over backing him. As Paxton navigates these hurdles, his campaign is reportedly working to mend fences with Cornyn in hopes of securing his support amid damaging leaks about his personal life.