Ken Paxton, Texas attorney general and conservative firebrand, is battling four-term Senator John Cornyn in a May runoff despite being indicted on felony securities fraud and impeached by his own party. Paxton has never lost an election in 25 years of public life, and polls show he could win despite being outspent by tens of millions. His loyal base overlooks the scandals, framing him as a victim of political persecution.

The winner will face Democrat James Talarico in November, making this race pivotal for controlling the U.S. Senate. Conservative activists describe him as a determined fighter against an outdated establishment, but critics call him flawed and self-centered. The runoff is still weeks away and could swing the Senate.