NRSC blast Cornyn primary challenger Texas AG Paxton after wife's divorce filing

The National Republican Senatorial Committee on Thursday slammed Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, a top 2026 GOP Senate primary challenger, after his wife announced the couple's divorce. 

"What Ken Paxton has put his family through is truly repulsive and disgusting," the group posted on X. "No one should have to endure what Angela Paxton has, and we pray for her as she chooses to stand up for herself and her family during this difficult time."

The response is not surprising considering such groups historically back the incumbent in party primaries.

The Trump-aligned Paxton has led Cornyn in early polling. 

Paxton's wife, Angela, a Texas state senator, posted on X on Thursday, "Today, after 38 years of marriage, I filed for divorce on biblical grounds. I believe marriage is a sacred covenant and I have earnestly pursued reconciliation. But in light of recent discoveries, I do not believe that it honors God or is loving to myself, my children, or Ken to remain in the marriage. 

She alleges her husband committed adultery.

The attorney general also confirmed the divorce, acknowledging the toll that the recent trial and allegations had on his marriage.

"After facing the pressures of countless political attacks and public scrutiny, Angela and I have decided to start a new chapter in our lives," Paxton shared on X. "I could not be any more proud or grateful for the incredible family that God has blessed us with, and I remain committed to supporting our amazing children and grandchildren. I ask for your prayers and privacy at this time."

Paxton has been the attorney general of Texas since 2015, and was impeached but not removed from office in 2023. The impeachment trial was over allegations of corruption, which also included allegations of infidelity.

The attorney general is challenging incumbent GOP Sen. John Cornyn for his seat next year. Paxton raised $2.9 million in the second quarter of 2025 for the March 2026 Republican primary, The Hill news outlet reported.

A poll last month showed Cornyn falling behind Paxton by 22 points. The NRSC endorsed Cornyn in the race and generally supports incumbents.