Cornyn pledges Republican ticket support after bitter loss to Paxton in Senate race

FULL: John Cornyn's speech after TX Senate runoff loss

Senator John Cornyn delivers an emotional concession speech following the Texas Republican primary runoff, reflecting on more than 40 years of public service, 18 consecutive campaign victories, and his time representing Texans in the U.S. Senate.

AUSTIN, Texas - Incumbent U.S. Sen. John Cornyn said he will support the Republican ticket despite his loss to Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton for the party’s nomination.

What we know:

Paxton’s win was evident early on, as the results came in after Texas polls closed at 7 p.m. By 8:30 p.m. Paxton had more than 60% of the vote to Cornyn’s under 40%.

What they're saying:

"I’ve spent most of my time in the Senate building the Republican party in Texas, and in the U.S. Senate, and I’ve always supported the Republican ticket," Corny said during his concession speech in Austin on Tuesday night. "And I intend to do so again in this general election."

Cornyn, who was first elected to the Senate in 2002, touted his accomplishments and quoted the Bible during his speech.

U.S. Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) delivers his concession speech in Austin, Texas, on May 26, 2026.

"A scripture verse comes to mind, as well, where the Apostle Paul said, ‘I’ve fought the good fight, I’ve finished the race and I’ve kept the faith.’"

Paxton thanked Cornyn for his years of public service for Texas during his victory speech in Plano.

What's next:

Paxton will now face Texas State Rep. James Talarico during the general election in November.