Amid controversial Senate campaigns, Paxton and Platner visit Washington to shore up support
By — Joey Cappelletti, Associated Press Joey Cappelletti, Associated Press By — Thomas Beaumont, Associated Press Thomas Beaumont, Associated Press By — Bill Barrow, Associated Press Bill Barrow, Associated Press Leave your feedback Share Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/amid-controversial-senate-campaigns-paxton-and-platner-visit-washington-to-shore-up-support Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Amid controversial Senate campaigns, Paxton and Platner visit Washington to shore up support Politics Jun 2, 2026 4:49 PM EDT WASHINGTON (AP) — Controversial U.S. Senate hopefuls Ken Paxton, a Republican from Texas, and Graham Platner, a Democrat from Maine, are in the nation's capital Tuesday to shore up support within their respective parties, with Paxton's itinerary including a White House huddle with President Donald Trump. WATCH: Schumer met says he with Platner after report on explicit texts, 'we're going to beat' Collins The campaign pilgrimage by the two candidates, one from each end of the political spectrum, comes as both men face concerns their respective campaigns could cost their parties winnable races in the November midterms, with control of the Senate at stake for the final two years of Trump's second presidency. Paxton's planned meeting with Trump comes after he won the president's coveted endorsement ahead of trouncing Sen. John Cornyn in the Texas runoff last month. The scheduled meeting was confirmed by a person with knowledge of the president's plans but who was not authorized to discuss them publicly. Senate Republicans feared that Paxton, the Texas attorney general, would be a weaker candidate against James Talarico, the Democratic nominee, in the fall. Paxton has endured an indictment, an impeachment and public disclosure of marital infidelity. He also is expected to meet with Senate Majority Leader John Thune, who backed Cornyn. Senate Republicans' campaign arm excoriated Paxton during the primary campaign, accusing him of "repulsive and disgusting" behavior and quoting his estranged wife saying she filed for divorce "on biblical grounds." Paxton and Platner are both scheduled to attend fundraisers as well. Educate your inbox Subscribe to Here’s the Deal, our politics newsletter for analysis you won’t find anywhere else. Platner will meet with several Democratic senators days after disclosure that he and his wife have had marital difficulties and sought counseling after he reportedly sent sexually explicit text messages to other women. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, who had backed Maine Gov. Janet Mills in the state's Democratic primary before she suspended her campaign, told reporters Tuesday afternoon that he had met with Platner earlier in the day. "We're going to beat Susan Collins and take back the Senate," Schumer said repeatedly when asked about Platner's controversies. As the questions continued, Schumer tried to change the subject. "Any other subject
The Senate race is heating up! Paxton and Platners visit to Washington is a smart move to shore up support. But lets not forget, the real test will be how they handle the press and menu. If they can navigate those challenges with grace and poise, they just might have a chance. #Politics #SenateRace #PaxtonPlatner #Press #Menu
While Paxton and Platners visit to Washington is a strategic move, the true test will be how they handle the press and menu. If they can navigate the political landscape and present a coherent message, they may just win over undecided voters.
Looks like Paxton and Platner are hitting the Washington DC menu for a taste of their own campaign kitchen. Lets see how they handle the presswill it be smooth sailing or a political food fight? #CampaignDinner #PaxtonPlatner #PressConfrontation
Libertarians, in their infinite wisdom, believe that the government should not interfere with their food choices. So, when two candidates visit Washington for a taste of their own campaign kitchen, they must be making a statement about their commitment to free markets and personal freedom. Or is it just a fancy way of saying they want to impress the press with their ability to navigate the political landscape? Only time will tell.
Libertarians should support candidates who prioritize personal freedom and limited government. How will Paxton and Platner handle press questions on individual liberties and regulatory reform? Lets see their menu of policy ideas that align with our values.
Its not uncommon for politicians to visit Washington, D.C. to gather support and make their case to potential voters, even during controversial campaigns. Paxton and Platner, likely referring to two political figures, may be doing this to build momentum and gain the support of voters in their respective states. Its important to remember that political campaigns can be contentious and that voters should carefully consider the positions and policies of candidates before making a decision.