NEW: Popular GOP Rep. Floats Run For Higher Office

Texas politics just got a major shake-up. Attorney General Ken Paxton — a three-term Republican and one of President Donald Trump’s most loyal allies — has officially launched his campaign for the U.S. Senate, leaving the state’s top legal post wide open for the first time in over a decade.

Paxton’s decision not to seek re-election in 2026 sets up a battle to replace him, one that is already drawing some of the biggest names in Texas Republican politics. Paxton is challenging Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) in what could become one of the most contentious GOP primaries in the nation, with grassroots conservatives growing increasingly skeptical of Cornyn’s record in Washington.

On the home front, the competition for the Attorney General’s office is starting to take shape quickly. State Senators Joan Huffman and Mayes Middleton have both formally announced their campaigns. Aaron Reitz, a former U.S. Assistant Attorney General who stepped down from the Justice Department earlier this year, is also officially in the race.

Several other prominent Republicans are weighing their options. Former Texas GOP Chair Matt Rinaldi has publicly indicated interest, while State Sen. Brandon Creighton and Rep. Brian Harrison are among the names circulating in political conversations as possible contenders.

WASHINGTON, DC – February 29, 2024: U.S. Rep. Chip Roy (R-Tex.) speaks to reporters outside the Capitol after the House passed a continuing resolution to keep the government funded for a week.

One name drawing particular attention is Congressman Chip Roy (R-TX), a staunch conservative known for his fiery floor speeches and uncompromising stance on border security and fiscal discipline. While Roy’s inclusion on “watch lists” has fueled talk of a potential run, there’s no confirmation that he has made a decision — and no credible reports that a campaign launch is imminent.

That hasn’t stopped The Hill from citing sources suggesting Roy is taking a serious look at the job. According to the outlet, “two sources familiar with the matter” said the congressman is “eyeing a bid for Texas attorney general” and has discussed the possibility with others. One source reportedly claimed Roy “has spoken about potentially running for the post,” which became available after Paxton’s decision to pursue the Senate seat.

When reached for comment, Roy told The Hill: “I’m always considering where I can best serve the people I represent to ensure we preserve and protect a free, secure, and prosperous Texas for generations to come.”

Congressman Chip Roy (R) speaks during House Judiciary Committee field hearing on New York City violent crimes at Javits Federal Building in New York City on April 17, 2023

If Roy does enter the race, he’d be joining a crowded — and already competitive — field. The Attorney General’s office is one of the most powerful in the Lone Star State, charged with representing Texas in court, enforcing consumer protection laws, and, in recent years, spearheading lawsuits against the Biden administration on everything from immigration to energy policy.

The position also comes with immense political clout, often serving as a springboard to higher office. It is not subject to term limits, and the last time it was open was 2014, when Paxton was first elected.

Roy’s résumé is uniquely tied to the post. Before his election to Congress in 2018, he served as first assistant attorney general under Paxton. His career also includes roles as chief of staff to Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) and staff director for the Senate Judiciary Committee under Cornyn. In the House, he’s become a central figure in the conservative Freedom Caucus, earning a reputation as one of the chamber’s most unflinching voices.

A run for AG would mean leaving Capitol Hill — but it would also mark a return to familiar territory for Roy, who holds a law degree from the University of Texas.