The Playbook Podcast Trump's Texas two-step
Feb 27, 2026
A fast-paced look at the heated three-way Senate fight in Texas and why the national power brokers are hesitating to pick a side. Tactics from Bannon, NRSC calculations and runoff scenarios get unpacked. The show also explores the early-state presidential calendar battle and a theatrical White House visit that played to media instincts.
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Cornyn Stayed To Stop Ken Paxton
- John Cornyn ran for another term mainly to prevent Ken Paxton, whom he calls "a crook," from taking his Senate seat.
- Jonathan Martin reported Cornyn's candid admission that he stayed because he feared Paxton's record and influence in MAGA circles.
Why Trump Hasn't Endorsed Cornyn
- Trump is withholding an endorsement because Paxton supported Trump's 2020 election denialism and aligns more with MAGA voters than Cornyn.
- Martin notes Trump's calculus: Paxton is more MAGA-coded while Cornyn is a Bush-style Republican.
Bannon Broadcasting From Texas Ranch
- Steve Bannon broadcast from a North Texas ranch backing Paxton while Cornyn recruited Trump's strategists Tony Fabrizio and Chris LaSovita.
- Adam Wren described Bannon's criticism that Trump's team met with Cornyn, creating an intra-MAGA split.