In the latest US politics live updates, Donald Trump has attacked fellow Republicans for 'hurting Texas' during the contentious Senate election race. The former president accused incumbent Senator John Cornyn and political strategist Karl Rove of undermining Republican nominee Ken Paxton, claiming they are 'doing everything possible to make it hard' for him to win.
Trump's Attack on Fellow Republicans
In a post on Truth Social, Trump lambasted Cornyn and Rove, stating they were 'sadly, and very stupidly' working against Paxton due to personal jealousy. He added that they are 'hurting Texas and, more importantly, hurting the United States of America!' Trump warned that if Paxton loses, it will be because of 'WEAK and INEFFECTIVE Political Hacks like John Cornyn and Karl Rove.'
Texas Senate Race: A Republican Stronghold at Risk
Texas has long been considered a Republican safe seat, but recent polls show Democratic nominee James Talarico with a slight lead over Paxton, who has served as Texas attorney general since 2015. A loss for Paxton would be a major blow for Trump and the GOP, marking the first time a Republican hasn't won a Senate election in Texas since 1988.
Key Players and Their Stances
- Donald Trump: Strongly supports Ken Paxton and criticizes fellow Republicans for not falling in line.
- Ken Paxton: Republican nominee, currently Texas attorney general, facing a tough challenge from Democrat James Talarico.
- John Cornyn: Incumbent Republican senator, accused by Trump of working against Paxton.
- Karl Rove: Veteran political strategist, also targeted by Trump for opposing Paxton.
- James Talarico: Democratic nominee, currently leading in some polls.
Comparison of Candidates
| Candidate | Party | Current Position | Polling Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ken Paxton | Republican | Texas Attorney General | Slightly trailing |
| James Talarico | Democratic | State Representative | Slightly leading |
Implications for the GOP and Trump
A Paxton loss would not only be a symbolic defeat for Trump but also signal potential shifting political dynamics in Texas. Trump's continued influence over the party is evident as he actively campaigns against those he perceives as disloyal.
White House Press Secretary's Uncertain Engagement
In other developments, Katie Zacharia, the White House's new press secretary, has stated that it is 'unknown' how much she will engage with the press or hold briefings, as questions about her legal credentials continue to arise following revelations that she failed to pass the California bar exam.
FAQ
Why did Trump attack fellow Republicans?
Trump accused John Cornyn and Karl Rove of working against Ken Paxton due to personal jealousy, thereby hurting Texas and the nation.
What are the latest poll numbers in the Texas Senate race?
Recent polls show Democratic nominee James Talarico with a slight lead over Republican Ken Paxton.
What would a Paxton loss mean for the GOP?
It would be a major blow to Trump and the GOP, marking the first Republican Senate loss in Texas since 1988.