The race to replace outgoing Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has reached a critical juncture as the Republican runoff between U.S. Rep. Chip Roy and Texas Senator Mayes Middleton takes place. Both candidates emerged from the March 3 primary elections and are now competing for the Republican nomination to face the Democratic contender in the November general election.
Republican Candidates: Roy vs. Middleton
Mayes Middleton, who led the March primary, has positioned himself as the conservative candidate aligned with former President Donald Trump’s agenda, particularly on immigration and border security. Despite not receiving an endorsement from Trump, Middleton has embraced the moniker ‘MAGA Mayes’ and has committed to continuing Paxton’s legal battles against progressive policies and targeting cartels.
Middleton’s campaign has been one of the most expensive in U.S. attorney general primary history, with over $11 million of his own funds spent. He has faced criticism from Roy and others regarding his limited legal experience. Middleton, however, defends his conservative credentials and has questioned Roy’s relationship with Trump.
Chip Roy, a four-term congressman, emphasizes his legal background as a key qualification for the attorney general role. Having previously worked in the Texas Attorney General’s Office, Roy argues that his courtroom experience makes him the better candidate to lead the office. His campaign focuses on border security and immigration enforcement, continuing many of the policies championed by Ken Paxton.
Democratic Runoff and November Outlook
On the Democratic side, former Galveston Mayor Joe Jaworski and Sen. Nathan Johnson of Dallas are competing for their party’s nomination. Both candidates have highlighted the need to rebuild public trust in the attorney general’s office. Johnson, who flipped a longtime Republican seat in Dallas, cites his electoral success and experience as reasons for support. Jaworski positions himself as a progressive, focusing on his efforts to rebuild public housing.
While the Democratic candidates acknowledge the challenges of winning in a state that hasn’t elected a Democrat statewide in decades, they remain committed to their campaigns.
The outcome of the Republican runoff will determine who faces the Democratic nominee in the November election. The race has drawn national attention due to its high stakes and significant financial investments.
Original reporting: CBS19 / KYTX (Tyler) — read the source article.
