Trump may need to save Paxton in Texas Senate race

In Texas' Senate race, Republican nominee Ken Paxton may rely on President Donald Trump's financial support to secure victory, though it has not materialized yet, according to multiple Republican sources. Paxton secured a primary win earlier this year and is now facing Democrat James Talarico, who is outspending him, exacerbating the political predicament.

The LGPAC launched a $15 million effort to aid Paxton on Monday, yet Republicans acknowledge they require tens of millions more, given the steep cost of running a statewide ad campaign in the state, which exceeds $5 million per week.

MAGA Inc., the group backing Paxton, has not disclosed any specific spending plans. In contrast, Sen. John Cornyn, another Republican candidate, has been projected to receive substantial backing from top GOP groups, as they view him as a more promising bet to win the general election, which would divert resources from other competitive states like Michigan and Ohio.

The National Republican Senatorial Committee formed a joint fundraising committee with Paxton, but the focus remains on eight Senate battlegrounds, omitting Texas.

The Senate Leadership Fund, a super PAC supporting GOP leaders, has not earmarked funds for Texas but has hinted at future spending there. Senator John Kennedy of Louisiana suggested on Fox News that the GOP has not allocated "the money budgeted for Texas" and emphasizes the need for financial assistance from the president. He estimates that Paxton might require $100 million or even $200 million in support from Trump's PAC to clinch the race.

While Republican officials do not anticipate such a massive influx, they are optimistic about receiving a sum close to those figures. The delay in receiving funds from Trump's super PAC could work against Paxton, as outside groups typically secure more efficient spending rates than candidates, making advertising inventory more expensive as time progresses.