Musk boosts Paxton in Texas Senate race
The gist
Musk's America PAC has spent nearly $5.2 million in Texas to boost Ken Paxton.
Republicans want his money but fear his spotlight could backfire in November.
How it unfolded
- 2024Musk spent more than $250 million on Donald Trump and his party, a model that led to a Republican sweep of the White House and Congress.
- 2025Musk took a highly visible role in the Wisconsin state Supreme Court race, appearing in an oversized cheese hat and offering $1 million checks to voters; he and affiliated groups spent at least $20 million, and the conservative candidate lost by 10 points.
- End of June 2026Talarico reported $21 million in cash on hand compared to Paxton's $1.7 million, according to campaign finance filings; FEC records show Talarico ended June with $21.5 million versus $1.8 million for Paxton.