Former Rep. Allred Launches Texas Senate Campaign Against Cornyn

Former U.S. Congressman Colin Allred has launched his campaign for the Texas U.S. Senate seat currently held by Republican Sen. John Cornyn, marking his second attempt after losing to Sen. Ted Cruz in 2024. Allred criticizes both Cornyn and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who is challenging Cornyn in the GOP primary and is tainted by legal scandals, as corrupt and out of touch with working Texans struggling with affordability. Allred emphasizes his clean record, refusal of corporate PAC money, and plans to fight corruption and reduce costs for families. The Democratic primary could become crowded, with potential candidates like Beto O'Rourke, Joaquin Castro, and James Talarico considering runs, although internal party dynamics and concerns over electability remain. Polls indicate both Cornyn and Paxton have low favorability ratings, with Paxton leading Cornyn in the primary but trailing Allred in hypothetical general election matchups. Democratic strategists hope Paxton's legal troubles will make him vulnerable in the general election, potentially benefiting Allred's chances in the increasingly competitive Texas political landscape.