Wesley Hunt, a Republican congressman from Texas, is officially entering the race for the U.S. Senate. His candidacy introduces a new dynamic to an already competitive primary contest. With this move, Hunt challenges both incumbent Senator John Cornyn and Attorney General Ken Paxton, who has faced significant legal challenges.
Hunt’s Reasons for Running
Hunt believes that Cornyn, who has a complicated relationship with former President Donald Trump, may not be the candidate to effectively beat Paxton. In an interview with the Associated Press, Hunt stated, “What I’ve seen in polling over the past few months is people want an alternative, and I’m going to give it to them.”
Primary Dynamics
The Senate Republican leadership, including figures like Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Senator Tim Scott, have expressed concerns about Hunt’s run. They argue that Hunt’s campaign could undermine Republican efforts to maintain control of the Senate. In a recent memo, they criticized Hunt’s aspirations, suggesting there is no viable path for his campaign.
Advertising Spend
- Hunt and his supporters have invested approximately $6.5 million in advertising since spring.
- In contrast, Cornyn’s campaign has spent over $21 million, targeting both Hunt and Paxton.
Wesley Hunt’s Background
Hunt represents a suburban Houston district that mirrors Texas’s Republican dynamics. He is known as an Army veteran and a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy. His relationship with Trump has been proactive; he endorsed Trump during the former president’s comeback and supported him vigorously during the 2024 campaign.
Paxton’s Legal Troubles
Ken Paxton, who declared his candidacy in April, is currently mired in multiple legal issues. Although a state fraud indictment and federal corruption investigation were dropped, Paxton faced impeachment in 2023, which concluded in acquittal. Compounding matters, his wife has filed for divorce on “biblical grounds.”
Political Landscape in Texas
The upcoming Senate race will be critical for both parties. With Democrats needing to secure four net seats to flip the Senate, they have targeted several key states, including Texas. Historically, however, Texas has been a challenging state for Democrats to win. In the 2024 elections, Trump won Texas by a notable 14-point margin.
Looking Ahead
The addition of Wesley Hunt into the mix adds uncertainty to the Republican Senate primary. His campaign aims to offer a tangible alternative to Texas voters. As the primary approaches, the battle between Cornyn and Paxton will be closely watched.
