Rep. Wesley Hunt Announces Senate Run in Texas as Republican Candidate

Representative Wesley Hunt of Texas has officially announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate. This move positions him in a competitive primary race that includes current Senator John Cornyn and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton.
Wesley Hunt’s Campaign Focus
Hunt believes there is a demand for alternatives among voters. He stated that polling suggests people are seeking different options, which he aims to provide. His campaign emphasizes several key issues.
- Support for President Donald Trump
- Border security
- Economic prosperity for Texans
- Support for American energy
In a release, Hunt criticized the ongoing conflict between Cornyn and Paxton. He argued that the Senate race should focus on substantial issues affecting Texas families rather than personal disputes between the candidates. “This race will finally be about what’s most important,” he noted.
Current Senate Race Dynamics
Senator Cornyn, who is up for re-election in 2026, faces a tough challenge from Paxton, who has been a prominent ally of Trump. Their polling numbers remain closely contested, and Hunt’s entry into the race could shift the dynamics significantly.
Hunt highlighted his long-standing commitment to conservative principles, claiming to be the “most consistently conservative legislator representing Texas in Congress.” He asserted that leadership in Texas should be determined by Texans, not Washington bureaucrats.
Support from Allies
A promotional video for Hunt’s campaign showcased his family’s endorsements. His wife, Emily Hunt, described him as “the heart and soul of the family,” while his brother, Wrendon Hunt, praised his leadership qualities. Representative Eli Crane remarked in the video that Hunt is committed to preserving the nation and is willing to make significant sacrifices for that cause.
Background and Context
John Cornyn first secured his Senate seat in 2002 and was re-elected in 2020, capturing 53.5% of the vote. Meanwhile, Wesley Hunt has served in Congress since 2023, representing the Houston area. This new Senate race has gained additional attention with the entry of Democratic state Representative James Talarico, who declared his candidacy in September.
It has been nearly four decades since Texas Democrats held a Senate seat, making this contest particularly noteworthy for both parties. As the campaign progresses, all eyes will be on how the race unfolds.