Is one other Texas Republican about to shake up the state’s Senate race?

Rep. Wesley Hunt could also be about to make an already chaotic Texas GOP Senate main even messier.

Rumors of Hunt operating for Senate have been swirling for months. However this newest media blitz marks his clearest sign but. Axios stories the latest advert options Hunt alongside his spouse and three younger kids, with a voiceover declaring: “Family, faith, freedom. These are the values that define Texas, and they’re the values that define Wesley Hunt.”

Texas Lawyer Common Ken Paxton

The message appears geared toward making a stark distinction with Lawyer Common Ken Paxton, the scandal-plagued front-runner who’s now going via a high-profile divorce. State Sen. Angela Paxton filed final week on “biblical grounds,” accusing her husband of adultery and saying the couple has lived aside for over a yr.

Paxton didn’t precisely deny the allegations. As a substitute, he launched an announcement saying, “I could not be any more proud or grateful for the incredible family that God has blessed us with, and I remain committed to supporting our amazing children and grandchildren.”

That form of baggage might give Hunt the opening he wants. He’s been emphasizing his navy background—a time-tested promoting level for Texas Republicans—and his advertisements have reached past main metros, airing in Amarillo, San Antonio, and Waco.

With Paxton mired in scandal and Sen. John Cornyn trailing badly in main polling, Hunt might emerge as a viable different for Republican voters fed up with each. Cornyn, who has held his seat since 2002, nonetheless has social gathering management assist, however which may not be sufficient to hold him via a tricky main.

Sen. John Cornyn

Even Trump is holding again. In accordance with Senate GOP sources, White Home officers not too long ago instructed Minority Whip John Thune that the president plans to remain impartial, at the least for now. He’s ready to see if Cornyn can shut the hole earlier than weighing in.

In the meantime, extra potential candidates are eyeing the race. Rep. Ronny Jackson—Trump’s former White Home doctor—can also be stated to be contemplating a bid.

And Democrats are getting ready for their very own combat. Former Rep. Colin Allred, who challenged Ted Cruz in 2024, has already entered the race. However different high-profile Democrats—Rep. Joaquin Castro, state Rep. James Talarico, and former Rep. Beto O’Rourke—are additionally contemplating runs, setting the stage for a potential intraparty showdown.

For now, the Republican area is fractured, the front-runner is underneath scrutiny, and the institution decide is struggling. If Hunt enters, it nearly ensures a fierce main combat. So, sure—seize your popcorn. Texas Republicans are gearing as much as tear one another aside—once more.