Greg Abbott's right-hand man runs for Senate: who is Ken Paxton, Texas's anti-immigration attorney general
Ken Paxton, Texas's attorney general, is running for the U.S. Senate in the upcoming 2026 elections, aiming to secure victory against fellow Republicans in the primaries.
Ken Paxton, who has served as the Attorney General of Texas for over a decade, is entering the race for the U.S. Senate ahead of the 2026 elections. Known for his strong anti-immigration stance, he closely aligns with Governor Greg Abbott's hardline policies on immigration in Texas. The Republican primaries are set for March 3, and Paxton will face several challengers within his party, which could significantly impact his political future.
Born on December 23, 1962, in Minot, North Dakota, Ken Paxton's early life was influenced by his father's career, leading the family to move across various states, including Oklahoma and New York. He pursued his education in psychology and law, eventually making his mark in Texas politics. As a staunch supporter of conservative values, Paxton's tenure as attorney general has been characterized by numerous legal battles, particularly surrounding immigration issues, which he sees as critical to Texas's future.
As he embarks on his Senate campaign, Paxton's record and adherence to stringent immigration policies will likely be focal points of his platform, appealing to the Republican base that favors a tough approach to immigration. His candidacy is expected to stir discussions within the party about the direction of its immigration policies and the broader implications for Texas's political landscape as the state continues to evolve demographically and politically.