‘I Can Win If I Have $20 Million’: Paxton Hints At Run Against Cornyn In Highly Anticipated 2026 Primary

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton could announce a primary challenge to Republican Texas Sen. John Cornyn in the coming months.

Paxton told Punchbowl News Tuesday that he is seriously considering a run to challenge Cornyn, but acknowledged he would need roughly $20 million to make the race competitive. If Paxton decides to run, the race could become one of the most expensive primaries of the 2026 cycle and could be the toughest reelection fight Cornyn has faced in his Senate career.

“I think it’s just time,” Paxton told Punchbowl. “He’s had his chance. He hasn’t performed well, and the voters know it. You can go a long time without people paying attention. And they’re paying attention now.”

Paxton said his reelection announcement hinges on securing enough fundraising commitments over the next several months to mount a competitive challenge against Cornyn. “I think I can win if I have $20 million,” Paxton added.

Cornyn’s office confirmed to the Texas Tribune last week that the longtime Texas Republican is seeking a fifth term in 2026. Paxton could face long odds due to Cornyn’s proven track record of raising massive amounts of money and the National Republican Senatorial Committee, the Senate GOP’s campaign arm, backing the incumbent.

Paxton has sought to cast Cornyn as out-of-touch with conservative grassroots and unpopular with Texas Republican voters.

Paxton has a 62% approval rating