Turning Point Action's Texas Primary Endorsement Ignites Conservative Civil War
The political arm of Turning Point USA, known as Turning Point Action, has ignited a significant controversy with its latest round of primary election endorsements in Texas. The organisation has officially endorsed Ken Paxton, Texas's current Attorney General, in the tightly contested primary election against incumbent Senator John Cornyn. This move is being widely interpreted as a direct challenge to the foundational principles established by TPUSA's late founder, Charlie Kirk.
Clash Between Endorsement and Founding Philosophy
Charlie Kirk, who was tragically assassinated during a speaking event at Utah Valley University last September, was renowned for advocating Judeo-Christian values. He consistently encouraged young conservatives to embrace traditional family structures, famously urging them to 'enter into marriage as a covenant, not a contract' and to build legacies through family. His wife, Erika, has since assumed leadership of the conservative non-profit.
In stark contrast, Ken Paxton's political career has been marred by serious personal and ethical allegations. These include a highly publicised impeachment trial in 2023, from which he was acquitted, and multiple accusations of adultery. One such alleged affair was with Tracy Duhon, a Christian influencer and mother of seven, which contributed to his wife, Texas State Senator Angela Paxton, filing for divorce last year. Angela Paxton cited 'recent discoveries' as making it impossible to continue the marriage, though she attended his impeachment trial and abstained from voting.
Polling Data and Political Backlash
The endorsement from Turning Point Action arrived just hours after a University of Houston poll revealed Paxton leading the Texas primary with 38 percent support, compared to Cornyn's 31 percent. Congressman Wesley Hunt trailed in third place with 17 percent. The same poll indicated Paxton would defeat Cornyn in a potential runoff, 51 percent to 40 percent. The first round of voting is scheduled for March 3, with early voting commencing on February 17th.
This political backing has triggered a fierce backlash from figures within and adjacent to the conservative movement, who perceive profound hypocrisy. Jonah Wendt, communications director for former Vice President Mike Pence's think tank, succinctly captured the sentiment on social media, juxtaposing Kirk's admonition to 'Get married. Have children. Build a legacy' with Paxton's alleged actions: 'Cheat on your wife. Get divorced. Run for higher office.'
Legal commentator Tom Ryan also criticised the endorsement online, writing, 'Wow! Turning Point Action is endorsing for US Senate a guy who has been credibly accused of adultery, securities fraud, and much much more. Good job there TPA! Some real family values you got going there, I see.'
Leadership Questions and Campaign Responses
Turning Point Action is currently led by Tyler Bowyer, a former top lieutenant to Charlie Kirk, according to the group's IRS filings. Bowyer's own dedication to Kirk's legacy has been publicly questioned, including by Buckley Carlson, brother of commentator Tucker Carlson, who suggested Bowyer should have been dismissed last September.
In response to the growing controversy, Ken Paxton issued a statement aligning himself with the organisation's mission: 'The movement that Charlie Kirk built has inspired millions, and I’m proud to be standing alongside Turning Point Action in carrying on the fight to save this country and defend our freedoms.'
Meanwhile, the Cornyn campaign emphasised the issue of character. Senior advisor Matt Mackowiak stated, 'Senator Cornyn believes character matters,' adding that 'character is on the ballot in this primary' when asked about the backlash facing Turning Point Action. Beyond the infidelity allegations, Paxton has faced repeated accusations of corruption, though he has never been convicted of a crime.
The Daily Mail has contacted TPUSA, TP Action, and Paxton’s campaign for further comment on the escalating situation.
