Trump-Linked MAGA Inc. Launches $10M Texas Senate Ad Blitz Targeting Talarico Amid Cornyn Upset

POLICY WIRE — Bridgewater, N.J. — A political group aligned with former President Donald Trump has filed federal records showing a $10 million investment in television and digital advertising for the Texas U.S. Senate race—a move marking MAGA, Inc.’s first major intervention in a premier general election contest.

The expenditure underscores heightened Republican concern that the Texas seat, long considered reliably Republican, may now be competitive following the nomination of state Representative James Talarico, a 37-year-old Democrat.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is the GOP nominee after defeating incumbent Senator John Cornyn in a May 2026 primary runoff—an outcome amplified by Trump’s public endorsement.

Despite Trump’s influence, his national approval has faced pressure over economic conditions and the Iran war, contributing to broader headwinds for Republican candidates in this midterm cycle. Historical patterns show voters often oppose the party holding the White House during midterms, and Democrats view Texas as a bellwether for potential expansion of their Senate map.

The new ads frame taxation as the central issue, citing widespread voter anxiety about persistent inflation. They portray Talarico as advocating broad-based tax increases—even though he supports higher levies only on wealthier households—while touting Paxton’s proposed tax relief for first-time homebuyers and families with children.

Last year’s law signed by Trump extended and expanded many provisions from his 2017 tax overhaul, but also widened federal budget deficits—helping push up interest rates on U.S. debt. Trump has separately raised tariffs, which function as import taxes, as a revenue tool.

Alex Pfeiffer, a spokesman for MAGA, Inc., stated Saturday that the group aims to counter what it calls Talarico’s ‘radical policies’ and ensure Paxton’s election to the U.S. Senate.

Talarico campaign spokesperson JT Ennis rejected the ads’ characterization, calling them false claims from ‘billionaire-backed dark money groups’ and highlighting Talarico’s vote for the largest property tax cut in Texas history and consistent support for tax reductions benefiting working Texans.

MAGA, Inc. holds at least $400 million in campaign funds—resources GOP candidates have eagerly awaited Trump to deploy. On Friday, Trump told reporters he would spend ‘whatever amount of money necessary’ to aid Republican efforts, emphasizing the funds are ‘my money,’ distinct from Republican National Committee accounts.

Trump added he retains full discretion over timing—including the option to hold some funds until the 2028 elections—though he remains constitutionally ineligible to seek a third presidential term.

Even as Trump backed Paxton despite the attorney general’s public controversies, the former president acknowledged last week that Paxton lacks polish on camera. At a White House event, Trump said Paxton ‘was the best attorney general in the country, perhaps,’ while conceding voters ‘might not love his television interviews.’

Republican operatives in swing states have intensified calls for Trump to tap his war chest. James Blair, who oversees Trump’s midterm political operation, sought to reassure allies earlier this week, saying all Republicans would ultimately find themselves ‘quite pleased and relieved at the support they find.’

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)