Texas Senator John Cornyn seeks Trump’s endorsement, calling it decisive for his reelection fight against Ken Paxton.

Cornyn Presses Trump for Critical Endorsement

Senator John Cornyn, Republican of Texas, has confirmed that he has spoken with President Donald Trump several times regarding a possible endorsement as he faces a competitive GOP primary for reelection. Cornyn, who has served more than two decades in the Senate and was previously Texas attorney general, is being challenged by current Attorney General Ken Paxton.

“I’ve talked to him about it a number of times. He is not ready to make that endorsement,” Cornyn told NBC News. He added, “I pointed out to him, and he knows this, that if he endorsed me, the race would be over.” Cornyn expressed hope that a narrowing in poll numbers and the start of advertising efforts would encourage Trump to endorse him, though he acknowledged that the campaign could not afford to wait.

Trump’s Influence Looms Large in GOP Contest

Cornyn’s campaign senior adviser Matt Mackowiak highlighted the significance of Trump’s support, stating, “President Trump’s endorsement is the most powerful endorsement in the modern history of the Republican Party.” Mackowiak further emphasized that Cornyn and Trump are “good friends and close allies,” noting the senator’s record of voting with Trump 99.2% of the time while in office.

“We respect that the President will take his time to make a decision and in the meantime we are focused on running a first rate, winning campaign, as Senator Cornyn always has,” Mackowiak said. The campaign remains optimistic while awaiting Trump’s decision, even as they continue their own outreach and advertising to close the gap in the polls.

The White House and Paxton’s campaign have also been approached for comment regarding the contest and Trump’s potential involvement. The race has drawn further attention amid personal developments in Paxton’s life, as his wife, Texas state Senator Angela Paxton, recently announced their divorce after 38 years of marriage.

As the Texas Republican primary approaches, both candidates are vying for support in a race where Trump’s endorsement could be the deciding factor. With the political spotlight on Texas, the coming weeks are expected to clarify the dynamics of a contest with national implications for the Republican Party.