Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) faces the toughest battle of his career Tuesday in the GOP Senate runoff against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who secured a late endorsement from President Trump. The contest is a pivotal test of Trump's sway in Republican primaries, following his successful ousting of critics like Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) and Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.).

Paxton, who argues he is the more authentic Trump ally, placed second in the March primary with nearly 41% support, just behind Cornyn's 42%. Rep. Wesley Hunt (R-Texas) acted as a spoiler, forcing the runoff. Trump's endorsement, announced Tuesday, shifted the race dramatically, as detailed in our coverage of Trump's all-in push for Paxton.

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Cornyn, who has tried to align with Trump despite past criticism, argues Paxton's legal troubles—including an impeachment trial on corruption charges he was acquitted of—make him a liability against Democratic nominee James Talarico. But Trump's recent primary wins, as noted in this analysis of GOP midterm vulnerabilities, suggest the president's backing could be decisive.

Key House Runoffs in Texas

Beyond the Senate race, several House runoffs are drawing attention. In the 18th Congressional District, Rep. Al Green (D-Texas), 78, faces a generational challenge from Rep. Christian Menefee, 38. After redistricting forced them into the same district, Menefee led Green 46% to 44% in March. Menefee argues for effectiveness over age, while Green touts seniority. A University of Houston poll shows Menefee leading 50% to 43%.

In the 33rd Congressional District, former Rep. Colin Allred (D-Texas) is challenging his successor, Rep. Julie Johnson (D-Texas). Allred, who abandoned a Senate bid, won 44% in March to Johnson's 33%. He criticizes her Palantir stock trades, given the firm's federal contracts with ICE. Johnson says she sold the stock for a $90 profit and calls Allred's attacks inaccurate.

The runoff results will signal whether Trump's influence remains potent and whether generational shifts reshape Texas's congressional delegation.