President Trump’s $10 Million Contribution to Ken Paxton’s Senate Campaign

President Donald Trump has made a significant campaign contribution to Texas Senate candidate Ken Paxton. Through his MAGA Inc. super PAC, Trump is donating $10 million to support Paxton’s bid against Democrat James Talarico. The funds are divided equally, with $5 million allocated for negative ads targeting Talarico and $5 million for positive ads promoting Paxton, as per a Federal Election Commission filing.

The contributions are set to Del Ray Media Inc., which will manage both television and digital advertising. Despite having $400 million in reserves, Trump’s MAGA Inc. had not yet provided a substantial donation this midterm cycle.

Notably, Securing American Greatness, linked to Trump’s super PAC, released a national ad focusing on Trump rather than congressional candidates. This approach stirred concerns that the spending might prioritize Trump’s promotion, even though he is not on the ballot.

Ken Paxton, who has experienced regular criticism during his tenure, remains favored among Republicans, boasting a 61% approval rating in August. Despite surviving an impeachment trial in 2023 over bribery and other allegations, details of an affair surfaced, leading his spouse to file for divorce.

In contrast, James Talarico is closely trailing Paxton, although Texas hasn’t elected a Democratic senator in over three decades. Trump recently labeled Talarico as “Tala-freako,” prompting Talarico to sell T-shirts with the nickname.

Prior to the donation to Paxton, MAGA Inc. had only provided a major donation to South Carolina’s Sen. Darline Graham, totaling $827,000. This followed minimal spending on midterm races and modest financial activity last year.

President Trump, before departing to South Carolina, stated he has raised approximately $850 million and plans to allocate substantial amounts for Republican candidates he deems suitable.

Graham is pursuing a full Senate term after succeeding her late brother, Lindsey Graham. At a rally for Graham, Trump implored supporters to vote enthusiastically for candidates he endorses, treating his involvement as if his name were on the ballot.