Will Texas get another MAGA attorney general? Or something new?

Texas Republicans Mayes Middleton and Chip Roy are locked in a primary runoff to replace outgoing Attorney General Ken Paxton, whose departure follows his decision to challenge U.S. Senator John Cornyn in the GOP primary. The race centers on conservative credentials, with both candidates emphasizing their alignment with President Donald Trump’s agenda. Middleton, a state senator, framed the AG role as pivotal for setting Texas’ conservative direction, while Roy, a U.S. congressman, noted opposition from liberal groups fearing his aggressive conservative policies. Democrats Nathan Johnson and Joe Jaworski, a former Galveston mayor, are positioning themselves as alternatives to Paxton’s tenure, criticizing his focus on partisan goals over statewide service. Both vowed to collaborate with Democratic AGs nationwide to oppose Trump’s administration, dismissing such efforts as ‘responsible’ rather than partisan. Jaworski accused Paxton of neglecting Texans’ needs, arguing the office should prioritize all 32 million residents. The runoff candidates face challenges in building statewide recognition, as none have previously won a statewide election. Jaworski lost the 2022 Democratic AG primary and noted even local voters often don’t recognize him. A University of Houston poll showed Roy leading with 33% support, but Middleton secured 39% of primary votes, narrowing the gap. Texas’ political landscape demands broad appeal, with voters favoring familiar names. Joshua Blank of the University of Texas at Austin warned that statewide campaigns require extensive outreach, a hurdle for lesser-known candidates. The race underscores Texas’ deep political divisions, where the AG’s office remains a battleground for ideological control.