Republican U.S. Rep. Wesley Hunt Emerges as Possible Bolt‑From‑the‑Blue Candidate in 2026 Texas Senate Race

As Texas Republicans prepare for the pivotal 2026 U.S. Senate race, Congresswoman‑care Rep. Wesley Hunt (R‑TX) is gaining traction as a rising alternative in the high‑stakes primary contest.

• Candidates in the GOP Primary
  Incumbent four‑term Senator John Cornyn, a long‑time establishment figure, is facing a primary challenge from Attorney General Ken Paxton, who has infused the race with populist energy despite a history of legal and ethical controversies.

• Polling Landscape
  Paxton currently leads Cornyn in early Republican primary polling by approximately 7–9 points, with prior polling indicating a potential runoff if Hunt enters — as early polls show Paxton at ~41%, Cornyn ~28%, and Hunt ~17%.

• Wesley Hunt’s Profile and Support
  Rep. Wesley Hunt, an Army veteran and Trump ally serving TX‑38, is being viewed as a less familiar but more broadly palatable option—especially to moderate and independent‑leaning Republican voters. Republican operatives believe Hunt “wins a primary and wins a general” with the right exposure and support.

• Strategic Moves & Campaign Budget
  Hunt’s political action committee has begun airing ads statewide, including conservative outlets such as Newsmax, aiming to raise his name recognition. Analysts estimate he may need up to $20 million in funding to compete effectively statewide.

• Trump’s Role Could Be Decisive
  President Donald Trump has yet to endorse either Paxton or Cornyn. Political observers note that Hunt’s standing dramatically improves in a three‑way contest if he receives Trump’s support, while Paxton benefits most among MAGA loyalists.

• Paxton’s Personal Scandal
  Recent personal developments may complicate Paxton’s candidacy; his wife filed for divorce amid allegations of adultery, prompting several conservative groups to withdraw support. Cornyn’s campaign has begun using the controversy to question Paxton’s character before primary voters.

Key Implications:

1. Crowded, Unpredictable GOP Primary
   The race is no longer a binary contest. With Paxton’s lead clouded by personal scandal and Cornyn’s declining favor among the hardline base, Hunt could force a runoff or even win outright if he builds momentum.

2. Trump’s Endorsement as Kingmaker
   Trump’s yet‑to‑be‑made choice looms large. His backing could decisively shift the primary dynamic among these three contenders.

3. Democrats Watching Closely
   Observers believe a divisive primary could weaken the GOP’s general election nominee, offering Democrats a rare pickup opportunity in a traditionally Republican stronghold.

The Texas Republican Senate primary for 2026 is shaping into a high‑stakes drama. With Cornyn’s long tenure, Paxton’s populist appeal and personal controversies, and Hunt’s rising star status, it’s poised to be one of the marquee primaries of the midterm cycle.