Donald Trump's grip on the Texas GOP appears to have tightened once again as key Republican figures in the Lone Star State warm up to the former President's 2024 White House bid. Less than twelve months in the rearview, Trump's influence seemed to falter among Texas Republicans, with blame cast upon his shoulders for the GOP's lukewarm midterm performance and legal woes piling up. However, reports the Texas Tribune, endorsements are now rolling in as his primary victory seems all but certain in the state.
U.S. Rep. Wesley Hunt, who, prior to Trump's announcement, promptly endorsed him, cited loyalty and constituent demand. "They're a complete joke," Hunt said of recent endorsers, indicating the latecomers weren't serious players in a statement obtained by the Texas Tribune. Polling indicates Trump's primary lead has grown considerably, solidifying his position ahead of other candidates like Nikki Haley.
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller, an early Trump endorser, saw others "saw the writing on the wall" when it became apparent that Trump would be the nominee. Meanwhile, Trump’s triumph in the New Hampshire primary seemed to be the tipping point for U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, who, despite expressing a desire for a fresh GOP direction earlier in the year, notably endorsed Trump minutes after the primary result projection.
A shift in Texas' Republican landscape has been underway since the outset of 2023, with DeSantis initially stirring interest as a potential competitor. However, as the year progressed and DeSantis' campaign underwhelmed, Trump's return to favor amongst the Texas GOP was cemented. Despite his earlier reticence and criticisms for Trump's effect on down-ballot candidates, Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan has recently found himself needing to dismiss any notion of a rift with the former President, affirming, "I voted for President Trump twice. I’ll vote a third time," according to a campaign stop quote captured by the Texas Tribune.
Despite Trump's consolidation of support, notable Texas Republicans such as State Comptroller Glenn Hegar have not endorsed anyone for 2024, with Hegar previously stating a hope for "a different slate of leadership" for the party. But many donors and party officials are yielding to the momentum building behind Trump. Donors like Midland's oil tycoon Tim Dunn have invested heavily in pro-Trump efforts, with Dunn recently contributing $5 million to a supporting super PAC. With the Republican field narrowing and Trump's nomination appearing increasingly probable, even those previously seeking alternatives are coming to terms with the political landscape, as the drawn-out primary season continues to reveal its victors and those left behind in the race for presidential candidacy.
