Trump’s oozing influence in the Texas primary runoffs and U.S. revives strikes in Iran: Morning Rundown

Morning RundownTrump’s oozing influence in the Texas primary runoffs and U.S. revives strikes in Iran: Morning RundownPlus, evacuation orders in a Los Angeles-area city have narrowed as emergency responders continue to evaluate a once-overheating chemical plant.Add NBC News to GoogleNew details on potential deal to end Iran war02:12Get more newsLiveonShareAdd NBC News to GoogleMay 26, 2026, 7:16 AM EDTBy Kaylah JacksonIn today’s newsletter: The question of Trump’s GOP influence returns as Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and Sen. John Cornyn are pitted against each other in one of the state’s primary runoffs. The U.S. military conducts strikes on Iran near the Strait of Hormuz and California officials narrow evacuation orders after the threat of a major chemical explosion dwindles. Subscribe to read this story ad-free Get unlimited access to ad-free articles and exclusive content.Here’s what to know today.John Cornyn’s last stand and Democratic fights: What to watch in Today’s Texas electionsKen Paxton and John CornynThe Dallas Morning News via Getty Images; CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images Today’s primary runoffs in Texas will put President Donald Trump’s endorsement to the test again — the latest step in a mission to punish some incumbent Republicans Trump has deemed insufficiently loyal.State Attorney General Ken Paxton has received the president’s backing in the Senate Republican primary runoff over longtime GOP Sen. John Cornyn. The move prompted concerns from party members who believe Paxton, who was impeached on bribery and corruption charges in 2023 and later acquitted, could put the Senate seat at risk.Neither candidate won a majority of the vote in the March 3 primary. Cornyn finished narrowly ahead of Paxton, 42%-41%, in that contest.This is Morning Rundown, a weekday newsletter to start your day. Sign up here to get it in your inbox.Though Cornyn has noted that the president “has consistently called me a friend,” his support of eliminating the Senate...