Ashley Lopez
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Cornyn, who was first elected to the Senate in 2002, was unable to get more than 50 percent of the vote in his primary race.
His most formidable challenger, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, was a very close second in the race.
Paxton is a controversial figure in the party who has weathered various legal issues during his decade-long career as the state's top law enforcement official.
However, Paxton is a favorite among parts of the Republican base and argues that he is more aligned with President Trump.
However, Cornyn has consistently voted with Trump through the years.
The runoff for this already expensive race is scheduled for May 26.
Democrats face long odds in regaining a majority in the U.S.
Senate, but both North Carolina and Texas are states the party is eyeing as potential pickups later this fall.
In Texas, Republican incumbent John Cornyn faces a challenge to his reelection from the state's often embattled Attorney General Ken Paxton and Congressman Wesley Hunt.
Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett and James Tallarico are vying for the Democratic nomination.
In North Carolina, there are contests for an open seat currently held by Tom Tillis, who announced his resignation last year.
The state's former governor, Democrat Ray Cooper, is the frontrunner for the Democratic ticket, and former RNC Chair Michael Whatley is favored to win the Republican nomination.