Ken Paxton Says Trump’s Convention Hurt Texas GOP

AUSTIN — Texas Attorney General and Republican Senate nominee Ken Paxton said Donald Trump’s recent convention hurt the Texas GOP, according to a recording released by CNN on Tuesday. Paxton made the comment during a closed‑door fundraiser on June 12, describing the event as “a liability” for Republican candidates.

Ken Paxton’s Comments on Trump’s Convention

Ken Paxton, who secured the GOP nomination for the U.S. Senate race in March, was recorded saying, “Trump’s convention just cost us voters.” The audio was obtained by a CNN investigative team and authenticated by the network’s legal department. Paxton later declined to comment, citing “confidential donor discussions.” — Homes For Sale Sahuarita AZ: Market Analysis And New Builds

• Who: Ken Paxton, Texas Attorney General and Senate candidate.
• What: Private remark blaming Trump’s convention for voter loss.
• When: June 12, 2024, at a fundraiser in Austin.
• Where: Austin Convention Center, closed‑door session.
• Why: Paxton expressed concern over the party’s declining registration numbers.
• How: Recorded on a handheld device; transcript released with CNN’s story.

Political Impact in Texas

Statewide Republican voter registration fell 3.2 % in the two weeks after the convention, according to the Texas Secretary of State’s office. A Quinnipiac poll released on June 20 showed Paxton’s favorability at 42 % versus 48 % for Democratic rival. — National Coffee Day 2026: Best Deals And Free Offers In Connecticut

Reactions from Party Leaders and Media

• Sen. John Cornyn (R‑TX): “We must stay focused on Texas values, not national theatrics.”
• Texas GOP Chair: Declined to comment publicly, citing internal strategy discussions.
• The New York Times: Reported that the audio could “reshape the narrative of the Texas race,” noting Paxton’s previous alignment with Trump.
• CNN panelist (Republican): Called Paxton “so stupid” for airing internal grievances, arguing it could alienate the party base.

Outlook for the 2024 Texas Senate Race

Analysts at the Texas Politics Project project Paxton’s odds of winning at 38 % as of July 1, down from 45 % a month earlier. The convention fallout may force Paxton to pivot toward a “Texas‑first” platform, emphasizing border security and energy policy while minimizing Trump references. Democrats are likely to capitalize on the internal discord, targeting swing districts in Harris and Dallas counties. — Police Search For Mother After Newborn Found Dead In Bangor

Frequently Asked Questions

Did Ken Paxton publicly criticize Donald Trump?

No. Paxton’s criticism was made in a private fundraiser and has not been repeated in a public forum. — Trump Administration Rescinds Nearly $1 Billion In Federal Funds

How significant was the voter registration drop after the convention?

The Texas Secretary of State recorded a 3.2 % decline in Republican registrations between June 1 and June 15, the largest dip in a six‑month period. — Infection-linked Cancer Cases Exceed 2 Million In 2024 Report

Will the leaked audio affect Paxton’s Senate campaign?

Early polling suggests a modest erosion of support; the final impact will depend on how Paxton reshapes his messaging before the November election. — Gardner-Webb Vs Marshall: How To Watch NCAA Football Live