Paxton Polling Leak

Leaked audio captures Texas Senate nominee Ken Paxton discussing declining convention poll numbers.

Leaked audio reportedly captures Texas Republican Senate nominee Ken Paxton telling donors that his polling numbers fell after the GOP’s Dallas convention, adding that “everybody’s numbers dropped”; the question prompting his reply did not clearly identify whom it referred to. The recording was made at a private Washington fundraiser by an attendee opposed to Paxton’s campaign, and other attendees reportedly corroborated the exchange. Paxton adviser Nick Maddux called the report manipulated, saying the campaign’s latest poll showed Paxton leading by three points and its numbers had improved since early September. Public polling cited in reports generally shows Democrat James Talarico ahead, while President Donald Trump, whose endorsement helped Paxton win the primary, has said the convention helped Paxton and continues to back him. Separately, U.S. defender and longtime captain Tim Ream announced his retirement from the national team after 16 years and 86 appearances, saying it was time to make way for younger players; he plans to continue playing for his club.

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