Trump faces pressure from fellow Republicans to fund Ken Paxton’s bid for the U.S. Senate after Paxton’s primary win, signaling unease within the party about Paxton’s electability.

Republican strategists warn Paxton’s race could force a reallocation of Texas resources and potentially influence other battlegrounds, prompting questions about whether Abbott or other party figures will step in to assist.

MAGA Inc. holds a large war chest of about $356 million but has not yet committed funds to Paxton, while the Senate Leadership Fund plans substantial spending in battlegrounds without a specific Texas focus.

Polls show a tight Texas race, with a June 9 snapshot indicating a tie between Paxton and Talarico, underscoring increased competitiveness for what was once seen as a safe Republican seat.

The tied race as of early June highlights pressure on Republicans to defend Texas as a reliable stronghold.

National Republicans acknowledge Paxton’s vulnerabilities and the potential need for added support to secure the seat, fueling debate over who should provide it and how.

Paxton trails fundraiser James Talarico, who reported about $40 million raised by March and strong cash on hand, while Paxton had roughly $2.3 million in the bank as of May 6 after earlier fundraising.

Paxton’s legal troubles—an ongoing felony fraud indictment and impeachment—complicate fundraising and raise questions about his electability against a rising Democratic challenger.

Fundraising disparities pitting Paxton against Talarico, with Talarico significantly ahead in total raised and Paxton far behind in cash on hand as the race tightens.

Texas remains an expensive battleground with 20 television markets, and Paxton’s nomination could make Texas more competitive for Democrats, stressing GOP fundraising capacity.

High advertising costs and multiple media markets in Texas mean strong financial backing is crucial for Paxton to narrow the gap against a well-funded opponent and a robust GOP fundraising apparatus.

Some Republicans, including Senator John Curtis, advocate for Trump’s discretionary funding but stop short of directing his spending, leaving the decision to the president’s judgment.