Ken Paxton Concedes Senate Race, Prepares to Exit Attorney General’s Office

After a closely watched race for the U.S. Senate between Ken Paxton (R-TX) and James Talarico (D-TX), Talarico defeated Paxton, flipping the Texas Senate seat to Democrats for the first time in decades.

Paxton, who’s served as attorney general for 12 years, began by congratulating Talarico, though the incoming Democratic senator said Paxton never actually called him to concede the race last night.

"I will commit that I will be praying for him, that he will do good for Texas and this nation," Paxton said.

Paxton thanked his family and friends for their work on his campaign, expressing gratitude for their support throughout the race. His campaign focused on border security, immigration enforcement and conservative policies.

“I want to thank all my friends across the state who have really made it special to be in this role representing the state as attorney general,” Paxton said. “I’m so grateful for that opportunity.”

Having lost the Senate race, Paxton will also be leaving his role as attorney general. Democrat Nathan Johnson will be taking his place in January 2027.

“I want to thank all my friends across the state who have really made it special to be in this role representing the state as attorney general,” Paxton said. “I’m so grateful for that opportunity.”

“But most of all, I walk away from this job in a couple months, and the best part of it is the memories of working with so many great Texans,” he said. “And then the fact that as soon as I’m out of office, I still have a lot of friends in Texas.”

Paxton also acknowledged the loss Republicans felt across the country, with Democrats making significant gains in the midterm elections.

"We've had a difficult night tonight across the country, but it's not over," he said.