Q&A: John Cornyn and Ken Paxton face off in May Republican runoff for US Senate

What would your top priorities be if elected?

My top priority is serving Texans and keeping our state safe, strong, and prosperous for the next generation. I’ve proudly supported President Trump’s agenda, voting with him over 99% of the time. That means securing the border, enforcing the law, and unleashing the economy through deregulation and smart, pro-growth policies.

How will you ensure Texans are able to receive the appropriate aid after natural disasters?

I've worked tirelessly to ensure Texans get help when disaster strikes. After Hurricane Harvey, I helped secure billions in recovery funding and authored the Texas Coastal Spine Authorization Act to protect Houston from future storms. I also led calls for a federal disaster declaration after the Central Texas flooding ...

What action is needed to ensure Texas remains a national energy leader?

Texas leads the nation in energy because we believe in innovation, free enterprise, and energy independence—principles I proudly advanced alongside President Trump. I worked to roll back regulations, support oil and gas producers, and invest in infrastructure that powers our economy and allies. With smart, pro-growth policies, Texas will remain ...

What will you do to support small businesses and promote economic growth in Texas?

I’ve stood up for Texas small businesses by cutting taxes, reducing red tape, and expanding access to capital so they can grow and hire. I was President Trump’s chief vote counter for the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act, and I supported the One Stop Shop Compliance Act to simplify federal rules ...

What do you see as the greatest challenge for Texas in the next five years?

Texas is growing because conservative policies work, but we must keep our economy strong, communities safe, and values intact. That starts with securing the border and restoring the rule of law. We must also support energy producers and invest in infrastructure. If we do that, Texas will remain the best ...

What would your top priorities be if elected?

I’m running to take a sledgehammer to the D.C. establishment and ensure Texas is represented by a relentless champion for our conservative values. My top priorities are supporting President Trump, ensuring we confirm conservative judges, protecting America against foreign enemies like China, and eliminating wasteful spending that’s bankrupting our ...

How will you ensure Texans are able to receive the appropriate aid after natural disasters?

I will work tirelessly to ensure Texas is able to access federal funds in the wake of natural disasters and coordinate closely with FEMA, as well as focus both on disaster preparedness prior to natural disasters and long-term recovery aid for the communities affected.

What action is needed to ensure Texas remains a national energy leader?

We must defeat the far-left’s war on American energy, especially industries vital to Texas’s economy like oil and natural gas. By cutting regulation and federal red-tape, we will unleash American energy and ensure Texas remains not only a national energy leader, but also a global leader.