Texas Senate race: Crockett gains paper’s backing; Cornyn wins business support

Two of the leading contenders in the U.S. Senate battle have notched another round of endorsements ahead of the Super Tuesday primary.

U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett, who is running against state Rep. James Talarico in the Democratic primary, announced an endorsement Monday, Jan. 26, from the San Antonio Express News, the first major editorial board to weigh in on the race.

In its endorsement, the Express News cited Crockett's experience at the federal level as a key reason for its support.

“Crockett's experience in Congress is a key difference," the editorial board wrote. "A former civil rights attorney with two terms in the House of Representatives, Crockett speaks with fluency on a wide range of policies and federal issues. She has proven herself in Washington."

“Crockett, authentic as she is engaging, has the experience and policy depth that makes her ready for the U.S. Senate.”

For her part, Crockett, D-Dallas, celebrated the endorsement as a sign that she has "the experience and leadership this moment demands."

"I have proven myself on the state and federal levels," she wrote in a statement. "I have been fighting the system, and the system’s been fighting me back. When it comes to affordability, accountability, (reining) in ICE, and slashing prices and taxes for the middle and working class — I am your fighter. If enough is enough, let’s show them we’re Texas Tough.”  

Business group backs Sen. John Cornyn in GOP primary

Incumbent U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, who is fighting to hold onto his seat against primary challengers Attorney General Ken Paxton and U.S. Rep. Wesley Hunt, R-Houston, received the endorsement of the Houston Region Business Coalition.

"Sen. Cornyn has been a steadfast champion of sound economic policies that allow Texas businesses to grow, compete, and create jobs," HRBC Chairman Alan Hassenflu said in a statement Friday, Jan. 23. "His strong support for higher education has helped strengthen the talent pipelines our employers rely on, ensuring Texas remains a leader in innovation and workforce development. Just as importantly, his commitment to unleashing Texas energy production has reinforced our state's role as an economic powerhouse, which is why HRBC is proud to support his re-election to the U.S. Senate.”

For Cornyn, who is hoping to survive to the November General Election, the endorsement marks yet another feather in his cap after a recent round of several endorsements from prominent Republicans across West Texas.

"I’ll always stand up for policies that allow Texas businesses to succeed and keep our state the best place in the country to live and work," Cornyn said.

Adam Powell covers government and politics for the El Paso Times and can be reached via email at [email protected].