The Texas primary runoff elections on May 26, 2026, have yielded crucial outcomes following the initial primary held in March, where candidates for various statewide, legislative, and congressional positions were nominated. In a total of 38 races, no candidate achieved a majority, prompting the top two contenders to advance to this runoff stage.
Among the most notable races is the fierce contest between incumbent Senator John Cornyn and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. This race has garnered significant attention, particularly after former President Donald Trump endorsed Paxton, adding pressure on Cornyn. In another key Democratic runoff for U.S. District 18, Representatives Al Green and Christian Menefee are engaging in a heated debate centered around the impact of money in politics. Additionally, Mayes Middleton has emerged as a leading figure in the Republican attorney general runoff, transitioning from a prominent donor to a frontrunner.
Voters participating in the March primary are restricted to voting in the same party’s runoff. However, those who did not vote in the primary can opt to vote in either the Republican or Democratic runoff. The results are categorized, indicating nominees for both parties.
Understanding the Significance of the Contests
U.S. senators serve six-year terms and play a critical role in shaping federal legislation, including the budget for military and federal agencies. They are also responsible for approving treaties and confirming federal appointments, including judges. Senator John Cornyn is vying for a fifth term against Ken Paxton, who is also seeking to elevate his political career to the Senate. Further details on both candidates are available through Q&A sessions.
The attorney general, serving a four-year term, functions as the chief legal officer for Texas, managing civil litigation on behalf of the state. This role includes initiating lawsuits against federal entities, corporations, and other parties, a practice that Paxton has frequently exercised. As he pursues a Senate seat, Paxton will not run for re-election as attorney general.
Key Offices and Their Roles
The Railroad Commission, which oversees oil and gas production, has three members elected statewide for six-year terms. Originally created to regulate railroads, its focus has shifted to energy regulation. Information on the candidates for the Republican primary is available for voters.
The lieutenant governor, a pivotal figure in Texas politics, presides over the Senate and significantly influences legislative agendas. This role is essential for determining which bills progress to the governor’s desk and shaping the state budget. A Democratic primary is underway to choose a candidate to challenge incumbent Republican Dan Patrick.
Texas’s congressional landscape is undergoing substantial change with 38 seats up for election this year, driven by retirements and party dynamics. Several districts, including Districts 18, 33, and 35, have advanced to runoff elections, with both parties contested in various districts.
The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals serves as the highest court for criminal matters in the state, hearing appeals from lower courts and all death penalty cases. In 2026, three of its nine statewide elected positions will be contested.
The State Board of Education, responsible for establishing curriculum standards for public schools, has eight of its 15 seats up for election this year. This includes four incumbents seeking re-election, with two Democratic district races progressing to runoff elections.
Voter Participation and Election Process
Historically, turnout for primary runoff elections has been low, particularly during midterm years. For instance, only 8.2% of registered Texas voters participated in the 2022 primary runoffs. Mail-in ballots must be returned by 5 p.m. on May 27 to be counted, with provisions for military and overseas voters extending to June 1. Close races could see mail-in ballots play a decisive role in the outcomes, potentially delaying final results.
The Secretary of State is expected to certify the final election results by June 10. Voting data is gathered and analyzed in collaboration with the Associated Press, which provides insights on remaining votes and determines winners based on this information.
