Senate Republicans are preparing for a costly general election in Texas. The state’s embattled attorney general, Ken Paxton, is attempting to replace four-term incumbent Sen. John Cornyn.

Cornyn faces a primary runoff on Tuesday against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. Public polls show Paxton leading. Despite this, Senate Republicans strongly support Cornyn in the primary. They argue he would be easier to defend against the Democratic nominee, state Rep. James Talarico, in the upcoming general election.

“We believe Sen. Cornyn has a better chance in the general election,” stated a Republican strategist.

Paxton, the president’s choice, is embroiled in multiple scandals. Meanwhile, Sen. Cornyn struggles to energize the party’s base. These dynamics add complexity to the Texas Senate race.

As the primary runoff approaches, the stakes remain high. Republicans aim to maintain control in a state pivotal to their national strategy.