Paxton Supporters React as Election Results Roll In at Dallas Watch Party
“It just feels like the Super Bowl of politics.”
Supporters and family of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton spent election night at the Westin Galleria in Dallas, hoping for a victory as results came in across the state.
The atmosphere was celebratory early in the evening, with attendees expressing confidence in Paxton's chances.
When asked how confident he was in Paxton, one supporter said he was about 80% confident, citing the voting machines.
Another attendee compared the night to one of the most-watched TV events in the US.
“We’re here to support Ken, and it just feels like the Super Bowl of politics,” an attendee said.
Others shared similar expectations, with some predicting a decisive win and others hoping Paxton could overcome the odds.
“I’m hoping for a win for my favorite attorney general,” one supporter said.
Another expressed hope that Paxton could “come from behind.”
Why supporters stood behind Paxton
For many attendees, their support came down to what they viewed as Paxton's commitment to conservative values and the Constitution.
One supporter said Paxton would stand up for individual principles and the role of the people in government.
“We the people are the government,” the attendee said. “We’re sick of the government telling us what to do.”
Another supporter pointed to Paxton's positions on transgender participation in sports and school locker rooms, as well as the importance of Christianity in the state.
Others described Paxton as a “true Texan” who believes in the Constitution.
Election results shift the atmosphere
After hours of anticipation, election results began to paint a different picture for Republicans gathered at the watch party.
Democrats secured a majority in the Texas Senate, with 54 seats to Republicans' 44, while two races remained pending, according to the reported results.
Paxton addressed supporters as the night continued, acknowledging the difficult results while leaving the door open for further developments.
“We’ve had a difficult night across the country, but it’s not over,” Paxton said.
The Broader Election results reflected significant Democratic gains across Texas.
According to Texas Secretary of State election data, Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico received more early votes than Paxton received in total votes.
As the results continued to come in, some attendees left the watch party before the night was over. Others stayed, cheering as Paxton addressed the crowd.
After serving as Texas attorney general for 12 years, Paxton thanked supporters for their support.
“I love Texas. I’ll always love Texas,” he said. “Thank you for the opportunity to serve as your Texas attorney general for 12 years.”
