'Deeply divided' Republicans in tough spot in Texas no matter who they choose: expert
The pressure is on for the Republican Party in Texas as the wrong choice of candidate could make it an easy walk to victory for the Democratic Party.
An analyst specializing in Texas elections believes there is a clear downside to both candidates presented by the GOP - John Cornyn and Ken Paxton - but one is a clear disadvantage to the chances of a Republican Party win. Sawyer Hackett, speaking to Greg Sargent of The New Republic, believes the GOP has a real fight on its hands and that Dem representative James Talarico will be hoping Paxton tops the ticket.
Hackett explained, "I think definitely it’s easier against Paxton—just in terms of the kind of person he is, the kind of character he has. You see on the Republican side, frankly, a party that is deeply divided and unhappy.
"The sitting Republican senator, John Cornyn, who has served four six-year terms in the Senate for Texas, is now headed for a runoff with a far-right, criminally indicted, Republican-impeached fraudster and adulterer who has a toxic political agenda.
"I think the Talarico camp is kind of hoping and praying that he ends up on the top of that ticket, because I think every Democrat in the country would be excited about that matchup."
But if Cornyn comes out on top, it could be just as easy for Talarico, given how clear the split within the GOP is. Hackett added, "But frankly, I think even if Trump were to endorse Cornyn and push Paxton out of this race — probably for some sort of cabinet position — I still think the race is going to be extremely competitive for Talarico."
"Cornyn, I don’t think, is necessarily beloved across Texas. He has a better approval rating than Ken Paxton, but not that much better. He’s not necessarily known for having notched a whole bunch of accomplishments on behalf of the people of Texas.
"And frankly, I think Trump is the biggest factor in the general election — the most likely factor to determine how Democrats turn out and how excited Republicans are."