State Rep. Steve Toth Defeats Incumbent Dan Crenshaw in Texas Primary

Incumbent U.S. Rep. Dan Crenshaw has lost to State Rep. Steve Toth in a closely watched Republican primary for Texas' Second congressional district.

State Rep. Toth was able to recieve 57.3% of the total vote while Rep. Crenshaw was only able to recieve 39.3% of the vote at the time the race was called.

Rep. Crenshaw, a former Navy SEAL serving his fourth term in Congress, has built a national profile as a vocal conservative and frequent media presence. However, his occasional clashes with President Donald Trump and his support for U.S. aid to Ukraine have drawn criticism from challengers seeking to position themselves further to the right.

These criticisms helped secure State Rep. Toth an endorsement from fellow Texas Republican Ted Cruz, a move that significantly increased Toth's chances of securing the primary. Cruz praised Toth's record in the Texas House and framed him as a more reliable champion of government and conservative values.

Notably, Crenshaw did not receive an endorsement from President Trump, which became a point of attack for Toth and his allies.

Toth, who represents District 15 in the Texas House, framed his campaign around what he called a need for "unwavering conservative leadership." He argued that the district required a representative more closely aligned with the grassroots energy driving the Republican Party.

The outcome highlights tensions within Texas Republican Politics, where ideological alignment and loyalty to national figures increasingly shape primary contests. Toth's victory signals a shift in the district and showcases the influence of the MAGA movement.