Angela Paxton backs GOP ticket in ad, avoiding mention of estranged husband Ken Paxton

Key points

• Angela Paxton's new ad urges voters to 'hold the line' for the Republican ticket, framing the election as a team effort rather than focusing on individual candidates.
• The advertisement was funded by Texas PAC, a super PAC affiliated with Senate GOP leadership that has spent over $126 million supporting Ken Paxton's campaign.
• Paxton filed for divorce in 2025 on 'biblical grounds,' citing adultery, after 38 years of marriage; the couple stopped living together more than a year prior.
• The race is currently a toss-up, with polls showing Talarico leading by a narrow margin within the error range, defying the historical trend of Republican dominance in Texas statewide races.
• Ken Paxton has received significant national support, including endorsements from President Donald Trump and financial backing from MAGA Inc. and America PAC.

Background

Angela Paxton previously addressed the Texas Federation of Republican Women in September, arguing that retaining the Senate seat is more important than individual candidate scandals. Her 2023 impeachment trial, which she observed but did not vote on, touched on allegations of infidelity and bribery, though she was ultimately acquitted by the Republican-controlled Texas Senate.

How outlets are covering it

The Texas Tribune and Fox News both highlight the strategic nature of Paxton's ad, noting her deliberate avoidance of her husband's name while emphasizing party unity. NBC News adds context by noting that Paxton's daughter, Mattie Hayworth, also appeared in a separate ad supporting her father, criticizing 'liberal politicians.' Polling data varies slightly by outlet: NBC cites a late September poll showing Talarico at 46% and Paxton at 43%, while Fox News reports a recent poll with Talarico at 51% and Paxton at 49%, both within the margin of error.

Why it matters

The ad signals a shift in strategy for the Republican campaign, attempting to unify the base despite personal scandals and divorce proceedings. It underscores the high stakes of the Texas Senate race, where a loss would mark the first statewide defeat for Republicans in over three decades.

What to watch

The campaign will likely continue to focus on party unity and national support, with President Trump's recent visits to Texas and rallies in Denton and Dallas aimed at boosting Paxton's visibility. The outcome of the November 3 election will determine whether Democrats can break the long-standing Republican hold on Texas statewide offices.