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Paxton weighs Cornyn challenge as Texas GOP rift deepens

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Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is considering a primary challenge to Sen. John Cornyn (R) in 2026 .

Paxton has called Cornyn a 'RINO' and 'anti-Trump' for not being conservative enough.

The primary would be one of the most expensive in the country and the toughest election in both men’s careers.

Paxton has overcome electoral adversity previously, having been elected as attorney general three times.

He was acquitted on 16 counts of impeachment resulting from allegations that he misused his office to benefit a real estate developer.

Republican strategist Charlie Kolean said he believes the conservatives have the momentum in the battle over the party, helping to give Paxton a chance at topping Cornyn.