Ken Paxton has won the Republican Senate primary runoff in Texas, defeating incumbent Senator John Cornyn, according to NBC News projections. Paxton, who currently serves as Texas Attorney General, received backing from former President Donald Trump in the race.
Following the runoff results, Trump moved to unite Republicans behind Paxton, The Guardian reported. The former president's efforts to consolidate Republican support come as Democrats view the race as a potential opening in Texas.
The Cook Political Report shifted its rating of the Texas Senate race following Paxton's win, according to Newsmax. On Tuesday, the contest rating was moved from "Likely Republican" to "Lean Republican." The shift reflects a potentially more competitive general election contest.
Many Democrats and some Republicans said Paxton's victory could turn Texas into a battleground state that will determine Senate control, The New York Times reported. The outcome of the Texas race may play a significant role in determining which party holds the Senate majority.
NBC News' Steve Kornacki provided analysis of the vote numbers following the primary results. The Republican primary runoff between Paxton and Cornyn has concluded, with Paxton emerging as the Republican nominee for the U.S. Senate seat.
The general election contest in Texas is now set, with both parties preparing for what could be a competitive race for Senate control.
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