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United States Senate election in Texas, 2026 (March 3 Republican primary)

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2020
U.S. Senate, Texas
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Democratic primary
Republican primary
General election
Election details
Filing deadline: December 8, 2025
Primary: March 3, 2026
General: November 3, 2026
How to vote
Poll times:

7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Voting in Texas

Race ratings
Cook Political Report: Likely Republican
DDHQ and The Hill: Pending
Inside Elections: Likely Republican
Sabato's Crystal Ball: Likely Republican
Ballotpedia analysis
U.S. Senate battlegrounds
U.S. House battlegrounds
Federal and state primary competitiveness
Ballotpedia's Election Analysis Hub, 2026
See also
U.S. Senate, Texas
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Texas elections, 2026
U.S. Congress elections, 2026
U.S. Senate elections, 2026
U.S. House elections, 2026

A Republican Party primary takes place on March 3, 2026, in Texas to determine which Republican candidate will run in the state's general election on November 3, 2026.

Candidate filing deadline Primary election General election
December 8, 2025
March 3, 2026
November 3, 2026


Heading into the election, the incumbent is John Cornyn (Republican), who was first elected in 2002.

A primary election is an election in which registered voters select a candidate that they believe should be a political party's candidate for elected office to run in the general election. They are also used to choose convention delegates and party leaders. Primaries are state-level and local-level elections that take place prior to a general election. Texas utilizes an open primary system. State law requires voters to sign the following pledge before voting in a primary: "I am a (insert appropriate political party) and understand that I am ineligible to vote or participate in another political party's primary election or convention during this voting year."[1]

For information about which offices are nominated via primary election, see this article.

This page focuses on Texas' United States Senate Republican primary. For more in-depth information on the state's Democratic primary and the general election, see the following pages:

Candidates and election results

Note: The following list includes official candidates only. Ballotpedia defines official candidates as people who:

  • Register with a federal or state campaign finance agency before the candidate filing deadline
  • Appear on candidate lists released by government election agencies

Republican primary election

Republican primary for U.S. Senate Texas

The following candidates are running in the Republican primary for U.S. Senate Texas on March 3, 2026.


Candidate Connection = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates

Candidate profiles

This section includes candidate profiles that may be created in one of two ways: either the candidate completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey, or Ballotpedia staff may compile a profile based on campaign websites, advertisements, and public statements after identifying the candidate as noteworthy. For more on how we select candidates to include, click here.

Image of John Cornyn

WebsiteFacebook

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: Yes

Political Office: 

Biography:  Cornyn obtained a bachelor's degree in journalism from Trinity University, a law degree from St. Mary's University, and a master of laws degree from the University of Virginia.



Key Messages

The following key messages were curated by Ballotpedia staff. For more on how we identify key messages, click here.


Cornyn said he had delivered for Texas while in office, including through his work to "deliver the largest tax cut in American history by securing passage of President Trump’s landmark Tax Cuts and Jobs Act," delivering "more than $11 billion in federal reimbursements for Texas’ Operation Lone Star, ensuring state taxpayers weren’t left holding the bag," and "eliminating unfair taxes on select firearms and suppressors in President Trump’s reconciliation package."


Cornyn said he had been "one of President Trump’s most reliable allies in the Senate," with a "more than 99.2% voting record with President Trump — higher than Ted Cruz." Cornyn said he helped advance President Trump's first-term agenda as Senate whip, including confirming three justices to the Supreme Court.


Cornyn said he was running for re-election to continue supporting President Trump by "reining in the D.C. Swamp by slashing wasteful spending, creating the most secure border in American history, and fixing Biden and Kamala’s broken economy to ensure the American Dream is alive and well for every citizen of the United States."


Show sources

Image of Virgil Bierschwale

WebsiteFacebookTwitterYouTube

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography "I'm a software developer and Navy Veteran. Worked all my life and suddenly in 2003 I was deemed overqualified and could no longer find work. Since then I have watched it grow worse yearly. Essentially we import more nonimmigrant workers than we create jobs for. I believe Americans should come first in America. Nobody, whether it be the incumbent, or anyone campaigining to replace him, are discussing jobs. How can they not discuss this when more and more of our college graduates are finding it impossible to find good paying jobs?"


Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.


Jobs


Jobs


Jobs

Image of Alexander Duncan

WebsiteFacebookTwitterYouTube

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography "I am a proud conservative, a devoted Christian, and a dedicated servant to the people. With 12 years of service as a police officer, I have firsthand experience protecting communities, upholding the law, and navigating the challenges facing everyday Americans. I grew up in a working-class family, with a father who served as a police officer and a stay-at-home mom who instilled in me the values of hard work, integrity, and faith. These values shaped my life and my unwavering belief in Faith, Family, and Freedom. I earned my education in International Relations and Public Policy, equipping me with the knowledge and skills to tackle the complex issues facing our state and nation. As a lifelong devout conservative, I have always put God first and fought for the values that make America strong. I’m married to my incredible wife, and together, we are raising our two young children with a commitment to faith and family. Relocating to Texas from California was a pivotal decision for our family. Texas stands as the last great hope for America—a state that abides by the Constitution, puts God at the center, and serves as a shining example for the entire nation. I am running for U.S. Senate to ensure Texas remains strong, prosperous, and free, and to fight for the principles that built this great state and country."


Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.


Faith, Family and Freedom. These are the values that make Texas and America strong. Faith in God guides our principles and decisions, family is the cornerstone of our communities and society, and freedom is the God-given right that I will fight to protect for every Texan and American.


I am committed to securing the border, defending the Second Amendment without compromise, restoring energy independence, and advancing America First policies. These actions will prioritize Texans, rebuild our economy, and ensure America remains strong, sovereign, and prosperous.


Unlike career politicians, I am not beholden to Washington elites or special interests. I bring 12 years of law enforcement experience, a background in public policy, and a deep commitment to Texas values. I will stand firm for the Constitution, fight back against federal overreach, and ensure Texans have a voice in Washington.

Image of Wesley Hunt

Facebook

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: 

Biography:  Hunt obtained a bachelor's degree from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. He served eight years as an Apache helicopter pilot in the U.S. Army. He deployed once to Iraq and twice to Saudi Arabia. After leaving the military, Hunt obtained master's degrees in business administration, in public administration, and in industrial and labor relations from Cornell University. Before entering elected office, Hunt worked in human resources and as a loan officer.



Key Messages

The following key messages were curated by Ballotpedia staff. For more on how we identify key messages, click here.


Hunt said he had a record of fighting for Texas: "I fought in combat, and I’ve fought for Texas in Congress. Now, I’m taking that same fighting spirit to the United States Senate. It won’t be easy, but I’ve never backed down from a fight. I truly believe nothing is more worth fighting for than our great country and our Texas values."


Hunt said he was a close ally of President Trump's. Hunt said that during the 2024 election cycle, he was "the first in Texas, and the entire country, to endorse Donald J. Trump for President on November 15th, 2022. Now, I’m fighting alongside President Trump to codify DOGE cuts, secure our border, and fight for economic prosperity for all Texans."


Hunt said energy policy would be a priority for him: "As the Energy Congressman of the World, I fully understand the importance of Oil and Gas in America’s future. Our leaders should be focused on energy addition, not energy transition. The United States produces the cleanest and safest oil and gas found anywhere in the world and we should be drilling more of it, not less."


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Image of Gulrez Khan

WebsiteFacebookTwitter

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography "A Bold Conservative Voice for the U.S. Senate An American Dream in Action Gulrez “Gus” Khan is a proud Indian-American, proven entrepreneur, and unapologetic conservative leader who has lived the American Dream through grit, faith, and service. Based in Lubbock, Texas, Gus has built businesses, created jobs, and uplifted underserved communities—all while championing the values that make this nation exceptional. Now, he’s bringing that Texas grit and America First vision to the U.S. Senate. A Healthcare Leader Who Delivers As Co-Owner of American Star Home Health & Hospice Care (ASHHC), Gus has helped transform healthcare access across West Texas. His work spans rural and underserved regions in Congressional Districts 13 and 19, Texas House Districts 83 and 84, and Texas Senate District 28. His mission? Deliver compassionate, top-quality care where it’s needed most—because every Texan deserves dignity and access to healthcare. Entrepreneur. Job Creator. Conservative Problem-Solver Founder of Gulrez Khan Management and strategic partner in ventures like Global Consultants of Texas and American Apps, Gus has proven that hard work and free-market principles are the engines of success. His entrepreneurial influence stretches across healthcare, tech, and sports—proving that Texas ingenuity can still lead the nation. Gus has fought tirelessly for conservative principles"


Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.


PATIENT FIRST As part of my campaign, I’m unveiling a HEALTH TRANSFORMATION INITIATIVE that puts patients—not insurance companies—back in control. This plan will:

  • Confront the unchecked power of HMOs
  • Eliminate unnecessary bureaucratic red tape
  • Empower small, local providers who prioritize care over corporate profits
I’m running to close the “gaps in healthcare” that real people face every day:
  • Delays and obstacles in accessing basic care
  • Endless wait times to reach insurance representatives
  • Burdensome pre-authorization requirements
As a Texas-based small healthcare business owner, I see how bureaucracy and low reimbursement rates especially hurt those providing home-based care.


President Donald J. Trump’s RECIPROCAL TARIFFS are more than just a trade strategy—they’re a bold commitment to AMERICAN STRENGTH. By demanding fairness from our trading partners, our President is standing up for AMERICAN WORKERS, restoring pride in 'MADE IN THE USA,' and ensuring that every dollar spent helps build a STRONGER, more SELF-RELIANT NATION. This is AMERICA FIRST in action—protecting our jobs, defending our industries, and putting our country back where it belongs: FIRST. GOD BLESS THE USA


It’s Time for TERM LIMITS IN CONGRESS!! Washington wasn’t meant to be a career path. Our Founders envisioned citizen legislators—people who serve their country, then return home. But today, too many in Congress are more focused on staying in power than serving the people. That needs to change. As your next U.S. Senator from Texas, I’ll fight for a constitutional amendment to impose TERM LIMITS: - 2 terms for U.S. Senators (12 years) - 6 terms for U.S. House Members (12years) This would bring fresh ideas, restore accountability, and reduce the influence of lobbyists and special interests. The American people overwhelmingly support term limits. It's time Congress listens.

Image of Rennie Mann

WebsiteFacebookTwitterYouTube

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography "My name is Rennie Hill Mann, a native Texan born in 1972 in Waxahachie. After completing high school and college in Texas, I joined our family business, Mann Glass Concepts Inc. I learned my strong work ethic from my stepfather as I prepared to take over the management of Mann Glass Concepts after his passing. In 1994 I married my beautiful wife, Candy Clark. We have three children, and we live in Richland Springs. As a successful business owner and rancher, I served my communities in Forney and Richland Springs. I left each place I served better physically and financially. I plan to leverage my business and community skills as a U.S. Senator for the people of Texas. My strong commitment to God, Family, Texas and America are core beliefs. As Senator, I will do everything in my power, and those of the constitution, to protect and preserve those beliefs."


Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.


My belief in God, family, and country are foremost in my mind. Our country was founded by people who believed in God, belief in the strength of the family unit and a country of free people. I am a business owner and rancher, not a politician. I'm not running for endorsements from the elitists and large corporations, but for the people of Texas and of the U.S.A.


My main priorities are for fiscal responsibility in our dept and budget, each item should be examined and voted upon individually in accordance with the Constitution. We need immediate, valid, and responsible changes in our care of veterans. I believe we should prioritize and recognize China as our chief adversary and end our dependance upon their products. The issue of drug use must be addressed. Finally, I believe our second amendment rights should be protected, defended vigorously, and never negotiated.


My pledge, if I am elected, will be to defend the Constitution and the rights guaranteed by it and address the priorities I have listed.

Image of Ken Paxton

WebsiteFacebookTwitterYouTube

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: 

Biography:  Paxton obtained a bachelor's and a master's degree from Baylor University and a law degree from the University of Virginia. Before seeking elected office, Paxton operated a private law practice for 14 years.



Key Messages

The following key messages were curated by Ballotpedia staff. For more on how we identify key messages, click here.


Paxton said he had "been on the front lines of the most important legal fights in the country" as Texas Attorney General during the Biden and Obama administrations and that he had a record of standing up for Texans. Paxton's campaign website said he was "not afraid to take on the big guys — and win. He’s fought and secured major victories against Big Tech, corporations pushing ESG nonsense, and companies abusing Texans’ personal data. He sued Pfizer for misleading the public on the COVID-19 vaccine and led national efforts to hold companies accountable for their role in the opioid crisis, bringing billions in settlement dollars home to Texas."


Paxton said he had "always been a loyal supporter of President Trump and a staunch supporter of the America First movement." Paxton said he would "champion President Trump’s legislative priorities, including cutting taxes, securing the border and deporting illegal aliens, ending the weaponization of government, and draining the Swamp."


Paxton's website said he was "a conservative outsider— just like President Trump— who has consistently taken on the political establishment and won. As Senator, he will shake up Washington and be a relentless fighter for the American people." He said he was running "to stop the career politicians who are attacking our way of life. He will stand with President Trump to protect our gun rights, defend the unborn, and defeat the radical transgender movement that’s desperate to put men in girls’ sports and woke indoctrination in our classrooms."


Show sources

Image of Tony Schmoker

WebsiteFacebookTwitter

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography "I grew up in rural Arkansas, where I was actively involved in growing our food and living the "country life" through camping, fishing, and hunting. During my youth, I significantly engaged in the local Toys for Tots program, organizing Christmas dinners and providing gifts to families in need. These experiences shaped my strong family values and my commitment to serving others, which I believe are essential for building strong, successful communities. I am married to my wonderful wife, Julia, who is an active member of our community, serving as a precinct chair and school board trustee. Together, we are raising our talented son, Sawyer, who is involved in club soccer, the Boy Scouts, and the school band. I am a member of several organizations, including the National Rifle Association, Veterans of Foreign Wars, the National Association of Realtors, and the Boy Scouts, all reflecting my values and commitment to community service. With over 23 years of experience as an Army veteran specializing in human resource management, I have developed expertise in the effective application of regulations and policies. I had the opportunity to travel globally, immersing myself in diverse cultures and broadening my perspective. Throughout my career, I have provided critical analysis and strategic advice to command-level leadership, influencing policies with far-reaching impacts. My recommendations consistently prioritize the human element, considering the ef"


Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.


I am committed to a strong America First agenda. I dedicate myself to ensuring that every decision I make and every bill I support prioritizes American citizens. I will work tirelessly to strengthen our borders and eliminate the incentives for illegal immigration. It's essential to reform our tax and spending policies to root out corruption. Upholding our obligations to our veterans, who have sacrificed to protect our Constitution and way of life, is non-negotiable for me. Additionally, I believe we should establish term limits to curtail the power of career politicians who stagnate our government and prevent our country from evolving and flourishing. It is my mission to make America great again.


I am committed to prioritizing the protection of our rights for the benefit of every citizen. I advocate for a government that maintains minimal intrusion in our daily lives, allowing individuals the freedom to thrive. It is essential that regulations are kept to a reasonable minimum to ensure health, safety, and fairness for all. Every American should have the ability to retain their earnings and genuinely own their property, I unconditionally support the Second Amendment, recognizing it as a fundamental right that underpins all others. Our government is founded on the consent of the people and operates under the guidance of the Constitution. I am committed to prioritizing the protection of our rights for the benefit of every citizen


I firmly advocate for leadership through strength. For America to assert itself as a true leader in the world, we must operate from a position of strength. Achieving energy independence is not just important; it is imperative. We will not allow foreign actors to influence or control our infrastructure and food production. Safeguarding ownership in these critical areas is non-negotiable, and we must ensure that essential components are sourced exclusively from American companies to prevent any manipulation. A robust, well-trained, and well-equipped military is the ultimate determinant of our security. Furthermore, the strength of the family and the promotion of family values are essential for the success and prosperity of our nation.

Image of Andrew Trakas

WebsiteTwitter

Party: Republican Party

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography "I’m Andrew Trakas. I’ve served and fought for our great state firsthand, not from behind a desk, but out in the real world where leadership truly matters. Now, I’m running for U.S. Senate to continue serving the people. I will fight for Texas to keep our state strong and ensure that every voice is heard, not forgotten."


Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.


1. Economy, Taxes & Cost of Living My Fix: “I’ll work to put more money back in Texans’ pockets and I will cut federal red tape, lowering taxes for working families, and protecting Texas industries from overregulation."


2. Border Security & Immigration My Fix: “As Senator, I’ll push for a Texas-first border security plan, no illegal immigrants in our cities, towns or neighborhood's."


3. Energy & Grid Reliability My Fix: “I’ll fight to protect Texas energy independence by investing in modernizing the grid, supporting both traditional energy and smart infrastructure, and ensuring Texans never freeze or sweat in the dark again."

Voting information

See also: Voting in Texas

Ballotpedia will publish the dates and deadlines related to this election as they are made available.

Campaign finance

Name Party Receipts* Disbursements** Cash on hand Date
John Cornyn Republican Party $8,957,115 $3,576,091 $6,014,485 As of September 30, 2025
Andrew Alvarez Republican Party $0 $0 $0 Data not available***
Virgil Bierschwale Republican Party $9,780 $2,383 $7,398 As of September 30, 2025
Alexander Duncan Republican Party $0 $0 $0 Data not available***
Ronald Evans Republican Party $0 $0 $0 Data not available***
Wesley Hunt Republican Party $0 $0 $0 Data not available***
Matthew Elliot Kelley Republican Party $0 $0 $0 Data not available***
Gulrez Khan Republican Party $3,100 $3,647 $-547 As of September 30, 2025
Rennie Mann Republican Party $0 $0 $0 Data not available***
Ken Paxton Republican Party $4,204,850 $1,022,073 $3,182,777 As of September 30, 2025
Tony Schmoker Republican Party $2,500 $3,107 $-607 As of September 30, 2025
Andrew Trakas Republican Party $0 $0 $0 Data not available***
Leo Wyatt Republican Party $0 $0 $0 Data not available***

Source: Federal Elections Commission, "Campaign finance data," 2026. This product uses the openFEC API but is not endorsed or certified by the Federal Election Commission (FEC).

* According to the FEC, "Receipts are anything of value (money, goods, services or property) received by a political committee."
** According to the FEC, a disbursement "is a purchase, payment, distribution, loan, advance, deposit or gift of money or anything of value to influence a federal election," plus other kinds of payments not made to influence a federal election.
*** Candidate either did not report any receipts or disbursements to the FEC, or Ballotpedia did not find an FEC candidate ID.

Ballot access

This section will contain information on ballot access related to this state's elections when it is available.

See also

External links

Footnotes


Senators
Representatives
District 1
District 2
District 3
District 4
District 5
District 6
District 7
District 8
District 9
Al Green (D)
District 10
District 11
District 12
District 13
District 14
District 15
District 16
District 17
District 18
Vacant
District 19
District 20
District 21
Chip Roy (R)
District 22
District 23
District 24
District 25
District 26
District 27
District 28
District 29
District 30
District 31
District 32
District 33
District 34
District 35
District 36
District 37
District 38
Republican Party (27)
Democratic Party (12)
Vacancies (1)