Paxton allies kick off $15M Texas ad blitz

Allies of Texas Republican Ken Paxton are launching a $15 million, two-week ad blitz across 18 Texas markets, the first major air campaign for his Senate bid. The ads push Paxton’s record as attorney general (including Kellogg’s dye reform and privacy settlements with Meta/Google) and accuse Democrat James Talarico of being weak on China, citing land near Laughlin Air Force Base and his vote on Chinese investments. Talarico’s campaign denies the China critique and accuses Paxton of cozying with the CCP. Fundraising remains lopsided against Paxton: Talarico showed about $21.5 million cash on hand to Paxton’s $1.8 million, while Talarico has spent roughly $39 million on TV since March. A Public Opinion poll has Talarico leading Paxton 48% to 42%. Some Republicans have urged MAGA Inc. to invest in the race, with Trump pledging support and holding a large war chest.