Struggles between Bush Republicans and hardline conservatives predate Trump. But he has tried to tip the scales

Published May 29, 2026 6:30AM (EDT)

President Donald Trump is greeted by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, left, and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick as he arrives on Air Force One at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport on Wednesday November 20, 2019. (Jay Janner/The Austin American-Statesman via Getty Images)

This article originally appeared on The Texas Tribune .

A senior senator who voted with President Donald Trump’s agenda 99% of the time. One of Texas’ most conservative lawmakers. A three-term state representative endorsed by Gov.…