Republican says Trump’s support of Ken Paxton in Texas primary was ‘colossal mistake’

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Published: 2026-09-27T18:36:12.356Z • Permanent link

Republican senator Thom Tillis has fired a scathing critique at Donald Trump, accusing the former president of making a "colossal mistake" by backing Ken Paxton in the Texas primary. Tillis's comments come as the Republican Party grapples with a potentially costly Senate seat in Texas, which could be lost if Paxton fails to secure the nomination. Paxton, the state's attorney general, has been embroiled in controversy over his handling of a multibillion-dollar lawsuit against pharmaceutical giant Pfizer. Tillis, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, has been critical of Paxton's leadership, citing concerns over the state's economic development and regulatory policies.

Tillis's criticism of Trump is a rare rebuke from a fellow Republican, who has historically been a loyal supporter of the former president. Trump's endorsement of Paxton was seen as a key factor in the attorney general's decision to run for the Senate seat, which has been open since Ted Cruz left to run for president. Cruz, a vocal supporter of Paxton, had previously endorsed the attorney general's bid for the Senate. Tillis's comments have sparked a heated debate within the Republican Party, with some arguing that Trump's endorsement was a calculated move to shore up support among conservative voters in Texas.

Paxton's campaign has been marked by controversy and turmoil, with some of his top advisors resigning in recent weeks. The attorney general has also been criticized for his handling of a recent investigation into a potential embezzlement scheme involving his office. Despite these challenges, Paxton remains a formidable candidate, with a strong fundraising operation and a loyal base of supporters. The outcome of the primary is still uncertain, with some analysts predicting a tight contest between Paxton and his main opponent, Republican Rep. Dan Crenshaw.

The Republican Party's internal dynamics are about to take center stage in Texas, where a Senate seat is at risk of falling into Democratic hands. The primary is seen as a bellwether for the party's overall fortunes in the state, and the outcome could have significant implications for the 2024 presidential election. If Paxton loses the primary, it could embolden Democrats to target the Senate seat, potentially giving them a crucial advantage in the battle for control of the chamber. The consequences of a Democratic victory in Texas could be felt nationwide, as the state is a key swing state in presidential elections.

The data suggests that the Republican Party is in trouble in Texas, with many analysts pointing to a decline in voter enthusiasm and a shift towards more moderate candidates. The Democratic Party, on the other hand, is seen as a force to be reckoned with in the state, with a strong fundraising operation and a well-organized get-out-the-vote effort. The outcome of the primary is far from certain, but one thing is clear: the Republican Party is facing a make-or-break moment in Texas.

The Republican Party's struggles in Texas are part of a larger pattern of decline in the party's fortunes in the state. In recent years, the party has been plagued by infighting and internal divisions, with many analysts pointing to a lack of cohesion and a failure to articulate a clear vision for the state's future. The party's decision to back Paxton, a polarizing figure with a checkered past, has only added to the sense of unease within the party.