The Playbook Podcast Texas forever
Mar 27, 2026
A heated Texas GOP Senate runoff and the politics around a potential Trump endorsement. How CPAC appearances, a Mar-a-Lago meeting, and the SAVE Act shape support and fundraising. The scramble’s impact on Republican resources and possible openings for Democrats. A discussion of Andy Beshear’s sharp critiques of J.D. Vance and why governors are attractive national contenders.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Trump's Endorsement Paused Over Save America Act
- Donald Trump is delaying a Cornyn endorsement while he presses Congress on the Save America Act.
- Ken Paxton met Trump at Mar-a-Lago and used a conditional offer to step aside only if the bill passes, keeping Trump undecided and boosting Paxton's standing.
CPAC Stage Became A Paxton Showcase
- CPAC in Grapevine became a signaling event with Paxton speaking and Cornyn skipping the stage.
- CPAC organizers invited both; Paxton accepted and used the big Texas stage while Cornyn stayed away.
Paxton Pulling Momentum And Forcing Hard Choices
- The Texas runoff is shifting dynamics and making it harder for establishment Republicans to coalesce behind Cornyn.
- Internal and public polling show Paxton as more electable, prompting NRSC hesitance and potential reliance on MAGA Inc. funding.