Ted Cruz Defends Ken Paxton Amid Criticism from John Cornyn

<figure><img alt="Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) arrives to a hearing in the U.S. Capitol" src="https://thedailybeast-thedailybeast-prod.web.arc-cdn.net/resizer/v2/SNNVIFUDA5D3PMXD6SOL6FL7UY.jpg?auth=20870b5bb0dac42a065cd24ec0f49829a8bd31f79586a445171353ba9e4817c3&amp;smart=true&amp;width=1467&amp;height=825" /><figcaption>Heather Diehl / Heather Diehl/Getty Images</figcaption></figure><p>Texas Senator Ted Cruz defended Ken Paxton, a Republican candidate endorsed by Donald Trump, during an interview with NBC News's Kristen Welker on August 30, 2026. Paxton is competing for the Senate seat currently held by John Cornyn, who has expressed concerns about Paxton's campaign abilities.</p><p>Cruz's comments came after Cornyn described Paxton as a "poor campaigner" who is "lazy" and not effectively raising funds for his campaign against Democratic candidate James Talarico. Cornyn's remarks were made in an interview with The Texas Tribune.</p><p>In response to Welker's inquiry about Cornyn's assessment, Cruz acknowledged the bitterness often present in primary elections but emphasized the importance of focusing on the general election. He stated, "This is about who will best represent 32 million Texans."</p><p>Cruz characterized Paxton as a "strong conservative" and expressed confidence in his ability to win the election, citing Paxton's history of being elected statewide. He noted that Paxton's policy positions align with the views of Texas voters.</p><p>Welker raised concerns regarding Paxton's legal issues, which include allegations of bribery and fraud. Despite this, Cruz maintained his support for Paxton, stating, "Ken Paxton can most absolutely win. He has a record. He supports policy positions that are consistent with the voters of Texas."</p><p>Welker pressed Cruz on whether he believed Cornyn should campaign alongside Paxton to secure critical voter support. Cruz reiterated his friendship with both candidates and emphasized the need to focus on the voters of Texas.</p><p><a href="https://www.thedailybeast.com/ted-cruz-scrambles-to-defend-lazy-texas-maga-senate-candidate-ken-paxton/">Read more at The Daily Beast.</a></p>