AUSTIN, Texas — Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who recently secured the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate by defeating longtime incumbent John Cornyn, faces ongoing skepticism from some major GOP donors despite his primary victory. Paxton’s campaign has been working to regain the support of high-dollar contributors critical to mounting a competitive general election campaign against Democratic opponent James Talarico.
Bob Rowling, a billionaire businessman and longtime donor to Cornyn’s campaigns, has expressed reservations about backing Paxton, citing concerns over the attorney general’s alleged extramarital affairs and controversial record. Although Rowling initially declined to renew his financial support, he reconsidered after an outreach effort led by Senator Ted Cruz, who arranged a meeting between Rowling and Paxton. Rowling is now weighing the potential threat posed by Talarico before making a final decision on his involvement.
Rowling’s hesitation underscores a broader challenge for Paxton in securing the backing of influential conservative donors wary of his populist style and legal controversies. Some prominent Republican fundraisers have reportedly requested that their contributions not support Paxton, citing disagreements with his office’s frequent litigation targeting business groups and concerns about his stewardship of funds.
The financial dynamics of the race highlight the uphill battle Paxton faces. Texas is among the costliest states for political campaigns, and Talarico has emerged as a formidable fundraiser. The Democratic candidate reported $27 million raised in the first quarter of 2026 and $30 million in the second quarter. In contrast, Paxton’s campaign announced a second-quarter haul of just over $9 million, a figure some GOP operatives consider respectable given his recent primary victory was secured only at the end of May.
Cash reserves also favor Talarico, whose campaign maintains approximately $23.3 million on hand, while Paxton’s committees reportedly have about $6.9 million available. Despite fundraising challenges, Paxton’s campaign consultant Nick Maddux expressed confidence in their financial footing and momentum heading into the general election.
Notable contributors to Paxton since his nomination include Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, the founder of the Curves fitness franchise, and an associate of a CEO convicted of fraud and later pardoned by former President Donald Trump. Many of Paxton’s recent high-dollar donors had not previously supported Cornyn, reflecting a shift in some segments of the Republican donor base.
Efforts by Senator Cruz to rally support for Paxton have extended to outreach to other wealthy donors, though some remain focused on down-ballot races or broader national priorities. Billionaire Ken Griffin, who has already invested heavily in Republican campaigns this cycle, reportedly does not plan to contribute to Paxton’s effort.
As the general election unfolds, Paxton’s ability to consolidate donor support and compete financially against a well-funded and energized Democratic opponent will be a critical factor in the race for Texas’ open Senate seat.