Texas AG Race: Roy, Huffman, Reitz & Middleton Vie for Paxton's Seat

A competitive primary election is unfolding in Texas to determine who will succeed Ken Paxton as Attorney General. Paxton’s decision to seek a U.S. Senate seat has created an opening in the office for the first time in over a decade, prompting a contest among four Republican candidates.

The Candidates

The Republican field includes Aaron Reitz, who has received an endorsement from the outgoing Attorney General Ken Paxton. He is facing challenges from U.S. Rep. Chip Roy, R-Austin; state Sen. Joan Huffman, R-Houston; and state Sen. Mayes Middleton, R-Galveston. Both Huffman and Middleton will retain their positions in the Texas Senate should they not win the Attorney General race.

Experience and Platforms

Aaron Reitz emphasizes his experience “leading legal troops into legal combat” and delivering legal victories. State Senator Joan Huffman highlights her legal background and experience assisting colleagues in the Senate with legal aspects of legislation. Chip Roy points to instances where he disagreed with President Donald Trump’s policies as evidence of his commitment to prioritizing the interests of Texans.

Did You Know? Aaron Reitz previously worked under Ken Paxton and also served as the leader of the Office of Legal Policy at the U.S. Department of Justice.

Mayes Middleton is positioning himself as the candidate most aligned with the “MAGA” movement, a label also sought by Reitz. Middleton cites his legislative record, including the passage of the Save Women’s Sports Act and the Texas Women’s Privacy Act, as evidence of his conservative achievements. He also authored legislation to reinstate prayer in public schools and the Ten Commandments in classrooms.

The Role of Trump’s Endorsement

While former President Trump has not yet endorsed a candidate, the potential for his support looms large. According to Matthew Wilson, a professor of political science at Southern Methodist University, “Even though Chip Roy is quite conservative, Chip Roy has sometimes bucked Trump administration priorities in Congress.” Wilson suggests that the key question is whether Middleton can successfully claim the mantle of Trump’s preferred candidate.

Expert Insight: The race for Texas Attorney General demonstrates the continued influence of former President Trump within the Republican party, even as candidates attempt to define their own conservative credentials.

Looking Ahead

Analysts speculate that the primary race is likely to result in a runoff election. The candidate perceived as most closely aligned with former President Trump is considered to have the greatest chance of success. The eventual Republican nominee will then face one of three Democratic candidates: former FBI agent Tony Box, former Galveston Mayor Joe Jaworski, or state Sen. Nathan Johnson, D-Dallas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the Republican candidates vying for the Attorney General position?

The Republican candidates are Aaron Reitz, U.S. Rep. Chip Roy, state Sen. Joan Huffman, and state Sen. Mayes Middleton.

Has Ken Paxton endorsed a candidate?

Yes, Ken Paxton has endorsed Aaron Reitz.

What is Mayes Middleton’s campaign strategy?

Mayes Middleton is framing himself as the “MAGA” candidate and highlighting his legislative achievements on conservative issues.

How might the outcome of this primary impact the future direction of legal policy in Texas?

Texas AG Race: Roy, Huffman, Reitz & Middleton Vie for Paxton’s Seat