Trump Makes Final Push in Texas as Paxton-Talarico Race Tightens

President Donald Trump held two rallies in Texas on Tuesday to support Attorney General Ken Paxton, who is seeking the U.S. Senate seat. The campaign stops in Corpus Christi and Lubbock occurred as Republicans attempt to prevent their first statewide loss in the state in over three decades.

The race between Paxton and Democratic challenger James Talarico has become a focal point for the midterm elections. CBS News describes the contest as competitive, despite President Trump winning Texas by more than 13 points in the previous election cycle. Talarico also held a rally in Lubbock near the presidential event.

During his visit to Lubbock, President Trump encouraged undecided voters to review their financial accounts before casting their ballots. He stated, "Before you pull the trigger … take a look at your 401(k)’s." He also asked voters to "pretend I’m on the ballot" while discussing his record.

The president addressed rising gas prices, which have frustrated many voters. He predicted that fuel costs will fall "very, very rapidly." He added that the state’s oil industry has performed exceptionally well, noting, "We are making an absolute fortune. More than we ever have." He claimed that Texas has never achieved such high numbers before.

Trump also commented on the possibility of Democrats gaining control of the Senate. He said, "I’ll be vetoing like crazy, OK? But I’d rather work from the positive side as opposed to the negative side." He then revisited a controversial comment he made earlier this month regarding Ohio Senator Jon Husted’s physical appearance.

The president explained that he complimented Husted’s hands, feet, and shoulders, but media outlets focused only on his remark about examining the senator’s body. He told the crowd, "I made the mistake of saying that I started off by studying his ass." He argued that the joke helped Husted in the polls.

Trump concluded his remarks by joking about Paxton’s physique. He said, "Maybe I should do that with Ken Paxton, but I’m not sure your body is gonna qualify." Early voting is currently underway for the November elections.