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Cruz comments on Paxton bid
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Ted Cruz backs Ken Paxton in Texas Senate race, calling rival James Talarico a 'communist lunatic'. Cruz says Paxton can win without Cornyn's support.
Background
Texas GOP Senate nominee Ken Paxton faces Democratic state Rep. James Talarico in November. Cruz has stepped in to defend Paxton amid criticism from fellow Republicans like John Cornyn, who called Paxton 'lazy'. The race is reportedly tied in polls.
How it unfolded
- Aug 29, 2026Paxton campaign focuses on rural voters, while Talarico pushes anti-corruption message.
- Aug 30, 2026Cruz says Cornyn's critique of Paxton is driven by 'hurt feelings' and attacks Talarico as 'far-left radical'.
- Sep 2, 2026Cruz urges Republicans to stop criticizing Paxton, calls Talarico a 'communist lunatic'.
Who’s saying what
- Support
- Cruz: 'Ken Paxton can most absolutely win' and will be the next senator from Texas.
- Caution
- Cruz acknowledges the race is 'a very real fight' with polls showing it tied.
Still unverified
Cruz's claim that Talarico is a 'communist lunatic' is a political attack, not a verified fact.