Trump deflects on audio of Paxton calling GOP convention a drag on polls
Republican Senate candidate Ken Paxton reportedly told donors that "everybody's numbers are down" after a midterm convention in Dallas that touted both Paxton's campaign and President Trump's record.
President Trump addressed leaked audio on Wednesday that purportedly captured remarks from Texas Senate candidate Ken Paxton criticizing the recent Republican midterm convention in Dallas. When questioned about the audio, Trump claimed he had not heard about Paxton's comments and praised the convention's success. The leak originated from a private event attended by lobbyists and donors, where Paxton reportedly stated that the convention had negatively impacted his poll numbers.
Paxton's spokesperson dismissed the leak as "manipulated nonsense" and cited an internal poll indicating Paxton was still ahead of his Democratic opponent, James Talarico, by three points. Trump had endorsed Paxton during an unprecedented two-night convention aimed at boosting support for GOP candidates. Despite the positive tone surrounding the convention, support for Paxton has waned among some Republicans due to a contentious primary with incumbent Senator John Cornyn.
Democrats have gained momentum this cycle, capitalizing on Trump's low approval ratings and Paxton's controversial past. Recent polls have shown Paxton trailing Talarico, and the Texas Democratic Party condemned Paxton's comments as "embarrassing to the president."
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