President Trump's endorsement of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton over incumbent Senator John Cornyn sparked fury among Republican senators, who warn the decision jeopardizes a safe GOP seat. Senate Republicans emerged from their weekly luncheon visibly stunned, with several expressing deep concern about losing control of a reliably Republican position.

Senator Lisa Murkowski called the endorsement "supremely disappointing" and warned it puts the Texas Senate seat at genuine risk. Other senators, including Susan Collins and Roger Wicker, voiced similar concerns about Paxton's viability against Democratic challenger James Talarico. The move follows Trump-backed challenger's recent defeat of Senator Bill Cassidy in Louisiana, compounding Republican worries.

Republican leaders fear multiple "lame duck" senators could emerge who are more willing to defy Trump's agenda, complicating legislative priorities. With the narrow GOP majority already struggling to pass key legislation, losing established incumbents threatens their ability to advance policy goals. Senate Majority Leader John Thune and other establishment Republicans had urged Trump to support Cornyn as the stronger general election candidate.

The endorsement arrives amid early voting in Texas, potentially reshaping what Democrats viewed as their best pickup opportunity. Senator Lindsey Graham acknowledged Paxton's pathway exists but warned it's "more uphill" than necessary, suggesting increased campaign spending will be required to secure the seat.