Dallas, Texas — Former President George W. Bush made a notable appearance at a fundraising event in Dallas on September 21, aiming to bolster Republican Senate candidates in several states. However, he notably refrained from endorsing Ken Paxton, the Texas attorney general and a controversial figure in the state’s Senate race who has the support of former President Donald Trump.
The event was hosted by Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, and served as a fundraiser for the Maintain the Majority committee, which is designed to support Republican incumbents in crucial midterm elections. The gathering follows a highly competitive and costly Republican primary in which Cornyn was defeated by Paxton. Despite the significance of the fundraiser and the presence of other political heavyweights, there was no public endorsement of Paxton from longtime party affiliates, a move viewed as telling in Texas’s evolving political landscape.
Since the event, Cornyn has opted not to campaign with Paxton, a decision echoed by one of his staffers who has reportedly joined the campaign of Democratic challenger James Talarico. The fundraising efforts prioritized six Republican candidates across states such as Alaska and Ohio while excluding direct support for Paxton, illustrating a potential rift within the party. The gathering’s undertones suggest a reluctance to rally around Paxton, reflecting broader concerns about his effectiveness in a general election that observers deem critical.
Republican strategists across the board are divided on the implications of Bush’s absence of support for Paxton. Some view it as a sign of a “loser mindset” that could jeopardize GOP prospects, while others believe the former president’s influence may inadvertently help Paxton garner national recognition as he faces Talarico.
The stakes for Texas Republicans are particularly high this election cycle. Polling indicates a tight race, with Paxton potentially trailing Talarico by a slim margin. Financial disparities favor Talarico, who has significantly outraised Paxton—taking in over $57 million in the first half of 2026 compared to Paxton’s fundraising abilities. The general election is set for November 3, and many party leaders are concerned that a Paxton loss could threaten the GOP’s longstanding dominance in a state which typically favors them.
Amid these tensions, financial support from outside super PACs has surged for Paxton, with one tied to Senate Majority Leader John Thune nearly doubling its ad reservations in Texas. Industry analysts have highlighted the over $119 million total reserved for Paxton’s campaign efforts, underscoring the high costs associated with what is shaping up to be a contentious battle.
Beyond the seat itself, Democrats see the potential for a Talarico victory to amplify their chances of securing a Senate majority in the upcoming elections. Given that they have not won a statewide office in Texas since 1988, a successful campaign from Talarico would also represent a significant milestone for the party.
However, Paxton’s political history complicates his campaign. After being impeached in 2023 on serious allegations of corruption and obstruction, his reputation continues to raise doubts. Adding to his troubles, personal scandals have emerged, including a divorce filing by his wife amidst rumors of an affair.
Past conflicts further highlight the fractures within the Texas GOP. Paxton and members of the Bush family have interacted less than favorably in the past, notably when Paxton defeated George P. Bush for the attorney general nomination in 2022. The Bush legacy remains a powerful influence in Texas, and many established Republicans have flocked to support more traditional candidates like Cornyn, showcasing a growing concern about the party’s direction.
In a departure from the ranks, longtime strategist Karl Rove recently declared his support for Democrat Jon Rosenthal in the Texas Railroad Commission race, shifting away from his party allegiance due to controversial remarks made by the Republican candidate Bo French. This break represents broader anxieties looming within the party about its evolving identity and the direction it is heading.
As the campaign progresses, the party’s internal divisions and lack of unified support for Paxton may pose significant challenges for Republicans as they endeavor to maintain their influence in Texas and nationwide.