First Thing: Trump-backed Ken Paxton ousts John Cornyn in Texas primary

Ken Paxton, the scandal-ridden Texas attorney general backed by Donald Trump, defeated incumbent John Cornyn in the Republican primary runoff for Senate, highlighting Trump's continued influence in Texas. Democratic candidate Jane Talarico faces long odds but has gained support through a message of peace and populism. Former Democratic candidate Cristina Tzintzún Ramirez of Ascend Strategy Labs noted Talarico's potential if Paxton is the nominee.