Here are the Republican primary candidates for U.S. Senate in Texas
Eight Republicans are on the primary ballot in the U.S. Senate race in Texas. The winner in the March 3 primary will be on the Nov. 3 ballot, facing off with the Democratic candidate.
Here are the Republican candidates’ responses to a Star-Telegram questionnaire. They are listed in the order they’ll appear on the ballot.
John O. Adefope
Age (as of March 3): 60
Campaign website: johnadefope.com
Best way for voters to reach you: info@johnadefope.com
Occupation: Consultant
Education: 4 Years Engineering
Have you run for elected office before? Senate - 2000 - RTL - Against Hillary Clinton
Please list the highlights of your civic involvement/activism in Texas: Advocate/Volunteer for organization(s) supporting adults & youth with autism. Pro-life advocate. Highlighting - Psalm 139-13-16
Have you ever been arrested, charged with a crime or otherwise been part of a criminal proceeding? No
Have you been involved in a civil lawsuit or bankruptcy proceeding? No
Who are your top three campaign contributors? TBD
Why are you seeking this office? We are entering an era where energy and AI are redefining the global power structure. I am running to ensure Texas leads that revolution so that American families don’t just survive through this transition-but they thrive in it as well. With capitalism evolving, and as the cost of intelligence moves towards ‘zero’ fueled by AI, we must pivot our education system towards human-focused skills and ensure our tax code amply rewards all domestic production. Understand this, Texas energy implies freedom. By maximizing our energy capabilities, we lower our cost of living. Therefore energy dominance isn’t just an economical policy, its imperative. Additionally, we’ll move to usher in tax incentives to inspire those who pursue good health. When we collectively & actively maintain a regimented protocol of a healthy diet and exercise, over time, studies have shown physical & mental health stabilize, diminishing costs. A tax break for those incorporating preventive measures saves us on the backend
If elected, what would your top 3 policy priorities be?
Economic stability and affordability in the age of AI. the importance of getting to AGI (Artificial General Intelligence) before China, protecting our national security and economy
Energy dominance with a solid infrastructure
Healthcare
How will you measure your success as a U.S. senator? When bills are executed and plans are implemented!
Why should voters choose you over your opponents? “Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. For you will be treated as you treat others. The standard you use in judging, is the standard by which you will be judged.” This is a quote taken from Matthew 7 of the Bible. I’ve stated it here as ‘this’ question suggests I’d need to ‘judge’ my opponents on some level, to qualify myself somehow, in order to answer. As a man of faith, that’s not something I’d do. However, I can say, with all clarity, the honor and responsibility of serving the people of Texas and my country on a whole, would be done with integrity. in the presence of an omniscient and omnipotent God to answer to. Therefore know, I will not capitulate to a man, men or persons, nor will I act outside of the best interests of Texan’s at heart. And for the record I bow only to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!
As a U.S. senator, how would you interact and work with members of the opposite party? Are there specific policy ideas where you see opportunities for bipartisanship? There was a time when politicians would have contentious debate & disagree on issues, vote the best interests of their constituents, and afterwards share in a beverage or two. Bias, hate and stalemate serves no one for very long. At the end of the day, the job needs to get done! My focus is Texas. Having worked with people of all types, with agenda’s, belligerence, ultimately, short of a mental illness, there’s a way to get things done with people who think differently, etc. There is something called “common ground.” In America there’s plenty of it! Energy, AI preparedness, healthcare, are just a few issues bridging bipartisanship collaborations.
What is the biggest challenge facing Texas? How would you address it if elected? The challenges facing Texas are serious. Healthcare, arising healthcare costs, the farming industry struggling, food and housing continuing to be out of reach for many. Our power grid continues to be vulnerable, and certainly is not where it could be. However, two devastating challenges not readily realized are flooding and future water scarcity affecting our farms and ranches. Not including this year, over 130 people loss their lives last year due to flooding. 27 of which were staff and young girls at a summer camp who barely began to live their lives. Flooding not only impacts life but infrastructure. Having worked in the road industry for a time, infrastructure such as roads, bridges, businesses and homes are loss and take years to recover, if at all. In regard to farming and ranching water scarcity, will be a real issue. Why? Data centers use a lot of it! A comprehensive plan is a must!
What should be prioritized in federal spending that Texans care about, and what, if anything, do you believe should receive less budget allocations? Energy resilience and costs, workforce development through vocational training for AI preparedness. Also healthcare is an ongoing challenge with costs continually rising. What should receive less funding are corporate subsidies or handouts to large corporations. It should be a free market. No corporation should get taxpayer money. They should be able to survive on their own.
How do you plan to ensure affordability for Texans in the day-to-day as well as in the housing market? Affordability for Texans is something that can be addressed swiftly because Texas is unique in so many ways. Groceries or food could be processed in Texas as opposed to shipping it out for processing only to ship it back after having encountered energy, travel, markup etc., which could be avoided. With regard to housing, incentives can be made available, lot sizes decreased, and alternative approaches are plentiful. Its just a decision needs to be made and for there to be follow through.
What should Congress do, if anything, to address health care costs and access? The existing plan needs not to be a ‘can kicked down the road’ but to be addressed and adjusted responsibly. The United States is the largest industrialized nation without a solid comprehensive healthcare plan for all its citizens. Other countries may not do it perfectly, however they have a plan that works for all their citizens, with a far less percentage of their GDP (Gross Domestic Product). We’re at 18% of GDP and there are millions of citizens not covered, (and I’m not including those that are undocumented). However next closest is Germany at 12.3%, France 12.2%, Japan 11.4%, the UK 11.3%, Canada 11.2%, Brazil and Italy at 9.9% and 9% respectively. Congress needs to consider how much we waste, only to get less, and address the problem head on.
What should Congress do, if anything, to address security along the U.S.-Mexico border and immigration policy? Border security is paramount. There has not been any new security issues at the U.S. Mexico border. However, the current policy, adversely and unnecessarily hurting law abiding [U.S. Citizens] is wrong, and needs immediate attention.
What should Congress do to ensure safety and success in Texas classrooms? Funding should be provided for entryways and perimeters for all school campuses. Children, administrators and their educators should be fully protected at all times. Congress can and should provide loan forgiveness to those committing to work in schools system under Title I for no less than 6 years. Schools in rural areas and those that fall under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), need to be appropriately funded. With the high vacancy rates in most school districts, introducing an entrepreneurial approach for those able, suitable and seeking to educate should be explored, via national study in conjunction with our universities. AI literacy standards implementation, with an overhaul to the whole system needs immediate consideration. Mental health is continually and issue, therefore funding needs to be made available at some level as a proactive approach to address school violence.
How would you approach foreign policy as a U.S. senator? Using energy dominance as a tool of diplomacy. In light of the recent regime change in Venezuela, our energy exports will seemingly shape up to be our greatest non military leverage. I’ll support the doubling of LNG exports, removing hurdles responsibly. In supplying our allies in Europe as well as Asia, we can end their dependence with our enemies, get global markets stabilized, while making sure Texas oil fuels the future of the American infrastructure.
What steps, if any, should the Senate take to prepare for the rise of artificial intelligence? Artificial Intelligence is moving faster than we realize. However here is some of what I’ll do when elected... First I’ll prioritize national security. The U.S. is in a race with China who doesn’t play by the same rules. Therefore we must support policies that move to accelerate AI domestically and swiftly. Development takes precedence over regulations in order to stay ahead. I’ll move to overhaul our education system. Continue to explore tax structures & economic safety nets when the price of goods drops, but mass unemployment becomes a reality. I’ll seek to fund AI safety research. Most don’t understand that an ‘alignment issue’ exists. In other words AI’s goals have to align with that of humans or it could be disastrous. Also I’ll move to leverage Texas’s energy infrastructure. AI data centers require massive energy. Must advocate to strengthen our independent power grid and deregulated energy market. Ultimately positioning Texas as a global hub for dominance.
Gulrez ‘Gus’ Khan
Age (as of March 3): 45 years and 5 months
Campaign website: www.gkhanforsenate.com
Best way for voters to reach you: gkhan@gkhanforsenate.com
Occupation: CO-Owner : American Star Home Health & Hospice Care
Education: Master’s in Business Administration
Have you run for elected office before? No. U.S. House of Representatives (TX 32), GOP primary in 2024. Mayor of Lubbock candidate - 2022. Elected National Delegate RNC 2020 & 2024. Precinct 27 Chair (Lubbock County GOP 2020-2025)
Please list the highlights of your civic involvement/activism in Texas:
2024 – Present : Texas Advisory Committee, U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC).
2023- Present : Member - Latinos United For Conservative Action (LUCA), Lubbock, TX.
2021 -2025: Cornerstone Partner – South Plains Food Bank & ASHHC Food Drive, Lubbock, TX.
2022-2023: Board Member – Lubbock Pediatric Cancer Association, Lubbock, TX
2022-2023 : Member – Operations Committee, South Plains Food Bank, Lubbock, TX Republican Party
2022- 2023 : Board Member – American Premier League (Cricket).
2020 - Volunteer : Fundraising for COVID victims.
2019 – Team Captain: Fundraising for Boy & Girls Club of Lubbock
2018 – 2023: Board Member, Center for Global Understanding, Lubbock, TX
2018 – 2019: Team Captain – Vista College: Ronald McDonald House Charities & Lubbock Monterey AMBUCS Collaboration, Lubbock, TX.
Have you ever been arrested, charged with a crime or otherwise been part of a criminal proceeding? No
Have you been involved in a civil lawsuit or bankruptcy proceeding? No
Who are your top three campaign contributors? Friends, Family, Mentors
Why are you seeking this office? As an America First candidate, my platform stands for term limits, a strong economy, lower taxes, border security, energy dominance, election integrity, education reform, support for farmers and ranchers, pro-life values, and unwavering backing for law enforcement, the military, and veterans—but I am running for the U.S. Senate because our healthcare system is broken and must be fixed through what I call “Healthcare Revival: My Way.” With more than 15 years in healthcare—operating clinics, hospital services, and co-owning American Star Home Health & Hospice across West and North Texas—healthcare is my calling. Rural Texas is in crisis, with hospitals closed or at risk, and I am committed to reviving them, fixing reimbursements, expanding rural pharmacies, lowering drug costs, cutting PBM abuse, pushing insurers to reduce premiums, restoring patient control, and ensuring Texans receive quality care close to home—just as President Trump delivered transformational tax reform for America.
If elected, what would your top 3 policy priorities be? Heatlhcare Revival (revive the 25 Texas’s shutdown rural hospitals, save the 103 such hospitals from shutting down), Term Limits, Strong Economy
How will you measure your success as a U.S. senator? I will measure my success as a U.S. Senator by real results for Texans—starting with hospitals and healthcare access, especially in rural communities. That means stabilizing at-risk hospitals, reopening closed facilities, improving reimbursement rates for providers, and lowering insurance premiums and prescription drug costs so families can afford care close to home.
I will also judge my record by broader outcomes for Texas: a secure border, lower taxes and regulations, expanded energy production, safer neighborhoods, and a stronger economy for workers, farmers, ranchers, and small businesses.
I will measure success by how well we support those who serve—ensuring veterans receive timely care, our military remains strong, and law enforcement has the tools and respect they deserve.
Above all, I will stay accountable to Texans by keeping my promises, remaining accessible, and leaving Texas stronger, safer, healthier, and more prosperous than when I entered office.
Why should voters choose you over your opponents? Voters should choose me because I bring real, hands-on experience to Washington, especially in healthcare, where I’ve spent over 15 years managing clinics, hospital services, and co-owning a home health and hospice company serving West and North Texas. Unlike my opponents, I understand the challenges Texans face: rural hospitals closing, rising healthcare costs, and families forced to travel hours for care.
I am a proven problem-solver and results-driven leader. I’ve led businesses, fought to make Lubbock a Sanctuary City for the Unborn, and served as a National Delegate and local GOP leader.
I will put Texans first: reviving rural hospitals, lowering insurance premiums, cutting prescription drug costs, securing the border, protecting families, and strengthening our economy. My approach combines conservative principles with practical solutions, delivering measurable results—not rhetoric. Texans deserve a Senator who works for them, not special interests or Washington insiders.
As a U.S. senator, how would you interact and work with members of the opposite party? Are there specific policy ideas where you see opportunities for bipartisanship? As a U.S. Senator, I will put Texans first, not party politics. While I am a proud conservative, I understand that results often require collaboration. I will work respectfully with members of the opposite party on issues where there is common ground and clear benefits for our state and nation.
Healthcare is a key area for bipartisan solutions—reviving rural hospitals, improving access, lowering prescription drug costs, and reducing insurance premiums benefit all Texans. Infrastructure, veterans’ care, and disaster response are other areas where cooperation is essential.
I will focus on practical solutions and measurable outcomes, engaging in constructive dialogue while staying true to my principles. Success will be improving lives for Texans, regardless of party lines, because Texans deserve results, not gridlock.
What is the biggest challenge facing Texas? How would you address it if elected? The biggest challenge facing Texas is access to quality healthcare, especially in rural communities where hospitals are closing and residents must travel hours for care. If elected, I will focus on reviving at-risk and closed rural hospitals, ensuring every rural Texas county has access to primary care providers, and supporting the establishment of locally owned pharmacies to keep prescription costs affordable. I will also push for higher reimbursements for providers to sustain clinics, nursing care, home-based care, and specialty services, so rural Texans can receive care close to home. By strengthening healthcare infrastructure, lowering costs, and expanding access, we can save lives, support local economies, and ensure rural Texans no longer face a healthcare crisis.
What should be prioritized in federal spending that Texans care about, and what, if anything, do you believe should receive less budget allocations? Federal spending for Texans should prioritize healthcare, starting with reviving closed rural hospitals, ensuring every county has primary care access, and supporting locally owned rural pharmacies to make care affordable and accessible. Investments should also strengthen border security, infrastructure, veterans’ services, and workforce development—practical areas that directly improve Texans’ lives.
Conversely, funding for wasteful federal programs, unnecessary bureaucracies, and projects that bypass local communities should be reduced. Resources must focus on initiatives that deliver measurable results for families, small businesses, and rural communities. By prioritizing healthcare, rural hospitals, pharmacies, and other essential services, federal dollars can strengthen Texas communities, support local economies, and ensure Texans have access to the care and opportunities they deserve.
How do you plan to ensure affordability for Texans in the day-to-day as well as in the housing market? I will ensure affordability for Texans by lowering healthcare, insurance, and prescription drug costs through higher reimbursements for providers, reviving rural hospitals, and supporting local pharmacies. I will promote competition in energy and markets, reduce unnecessary regulations, and fight for lower taxes to increase take-home pay for families and small businesses.
In the housing market, I will push for policies that expand supply, streamline permitting, and incentivize affordable housing development so families, workers, and farmers can live near their jobs. By combining fiscal responsibility, market-driven solutions, and support for essential services, Texans can keep more of what they earn while accessing quality care, housing, and opportunities close to home.
What should Congress do, if anything, to address health care costs and access? Congress must prioritize healthcare access and affordability, especially for rural Texans. This means reviving closed hospitals, ensuring every county has primary care providers, and supporting locally owned pharmacies to lower prescription costs. Lawmakers should also increase reimbursements for clinics, home-based care, nursing, and specialty services, reduce burdensome regulations, and hold PBMs accountable for hidden fees. Congress should promote competition in insurance and drug markets, incentivize providers to stay in underserved areas, and invest in palliative and preventive care. By focusing on practical, results-driven policies, Congress can ensure Texans have quality, affordable care close to home and prevent communities from losing their only healthcare resources.
What should Congress do, if anything, to address security along the U.S.-Mexico border and immigration policy? Congress must fully support strong border security and enforce immigration laws to protect Texans and our nation. Building on President Trump’s successes—securing the border, expanding physical barriers, increasing patrols, and cracking down on illegal crossings—Congress should ensure continued funding and resources for border security personnel and technology. Immigration policy must prioritize legal entry, merit-based systems, and enforcement against those who bypass the law. I will continue to support and strengthen Trump’s America First approach, holding the line on illegal immigration, protecting communities, and ensuring our border policies keep Texans safe while promoting lawful, responsible immigration.
What should Congress do to ensure safety and success in Texas classrooms? Congress should ensure safety and success in Texas classrooms by supporting local control, enhancing school security, and promoting policies that prioritize learning over politics. Funding should go to school safety measures, mental health resources, and programs that strengthen teacher training and classroom instruction. Congress should also support curriculum transparency, parental rights, and accountability to ensure students receive a high-quality education that prepares them for the workforce and life. By empowering educators, protecting students, and keeping schools free from harmful ideologies, Congress can help Texas classrooms be safe, focused, and successful for every child.
How would you approach foreign policy as a U.S. senator?
As a U.S. Senator, I would approach foreign policy by putting American interests and security first, supporting President Trump’s “peace through strength” strategy. This means maintaining a strong military to deter threats, defend our borders, and protect our citizens, while using diplomacy to build alliances that advance U.S. security, trade, and economic interests.
I would prioritize policies that protect American workers, maintain energy independence, and promote stability abroad, while standing firm against regimes that threaten global security. Congress must also ensure accountability in defense and foreign aid spending, making sure taxpayer dollars strengthen national security effectively.
By combining strength, diplomacy, and practical oversight, I will work to keep the United States safe, respected, and competitive globally, ensuring foreign policy delivers security and prosperity for all Americans.
What steps, if any, should the Senate take to prepare for the rise of artificial intelligence? The Senate should take a proactive, balanced approach to AI, ensuring innovation benefits Americans while minimizing risks. This includes establishing clear regulations that protect privacy, security, and safety without stifling growth; promoting transparency and accountability in critical systems like healthcare, finance, and infrastructure; and investing in research and workforce training so Americans lead in AI and adapt to job changes. The Senate should also encourage ethical AI use that aligns with U.S. values, prevents misuse by foreign adversaries, and protects civil liberties, while coordinating with industry and academia to create standards and safeguards. The goal is to harness AI to grow the economy, improve healthcare, and strengthen national security, while protecting Americans from unintended consequences.
John Cornyn
Age (as of March 3): 74
Campaign website: johncornyn.com
Best way for voters to reach you: By getting in touch with my Senate office or one of our district offices
Occupation: U.S. Senator
Education: B.A. in Journalism from Trinity University, J.D. from St. Mary’s University School of Law, LL.M. from the University of Virginia School of Law
Have you run for elected office before? District Judge (1984-1990) Texas Supreme Court Justice (1990-1997) Attorney General of Texas (1997-2002)
Please list the highlights of your civic involvement/activism in Texas.
1. District Judge
2. Texas Supreme Court Justice
3. Attorney General of Texas
4. United States Senator from Texas
5. Helping President Trump pass the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act and voting to make these provisions permanent in the One Big Beautiful Bill
6. Working with President Trump to secure the border and securing $11 billion in reimbursement for Texas taxpayers for Operation Lone Star
Have you ever been arrested, charged with a crime or otherwise been part of a criminal proceeding? No
Have you been involved in a civil lawsuit or bankruptcy proceeding? No
Who are your top three campaign contributors? My campaign has received maximum campaign contributions from a number of people. A full accounting can be found on the FEC website.
Why are you seeking this office? In this election, character matters. I’ve built trust with Texans during my career in public service, and have the experience necessary to get things done and the track record to prove it. I’ve also been a reliable ally of President Trump, helping him secure the border, support law enforcement, and unleash our economy. We must continue to codify President Trump’s agenda, and I’m eager to continue that work upon re-election.
If elected, what would your top 3 policy priorities be? Codifying President Trump’s agenda, supporting our law enforcement to uphold the rule of law, and tackling the affordability crisis by enacting sound economic policies. We are making significant progress with President Trump leading the country, but Congress needs to ensure that his agenda is codified into law so that the effects of his policies are long-term cannot be easily repealed. It’s never been more important to support our law enforcement, and I will continue to do so. Finally, we have made progress in bringing down the cost of living, but we have more work to do in bringing down prices for Americans.
How will you measure your success as a U.S. senator? By the overall well-being of Texans. My first priority is always the people I am sworn to serve. Texas is doing great right now with conservative leadership, with low taxes, a welcoming business climate, and thanks to President Trump, a secure border. Any work I do to get things done in the Senate is ultimately measured against how it impacts the lives of Texans in a positive manner.
Why should voters choose you over your opponents? I have the experience necessary to get things done, and have often been recognized as one of the United States most effective Senators. I’m willing to show up to work and roll up my sleeves for the betterment of Texas, which is not something that one of my opponents can say. I also know that in America, character still matters, and I’ve built trust with Texans over my years of public service. No scandals, just results.
As a U.S. senator, how would you interact and work with members of the opposite party? Are there specific policy ideas where you see opportunities for bipartisanship? It’s difficult when one party has gotten so extreme, and almost reflexively opposes the president and his agenda. Where there are opportunities to collaborate with Democrats on issues that will benefit Texans, I am open to it. I’ve worked across the aisle throughout my career when it makes sense.
What is the biggest challenge facing Texas? How would you address it if elected? Texans want to make certain the border security nightmare of the lawless Biden-era is behind us and I’ve been working with President Trump to make sure that is the case. I also believe tackling our infrastructure challenges must be a priority, along with taking the regulatory boot off the neck of Texas job creators.
What should be prioritized in federal spending that Texans care about, and what, if anything, do you believe should receive less budget allocations? Texans expect Washington to focus on the fundamentals: securing our border, backing the men and women of law enforcement, reinvesting in America, and keeping our nation safe. Federal dollars should go toward border security, public safety, a strong military, and critical infrastructure that helps our economy grow. What should receive less funding is wasteful bureaucracy and programs that don’t deliver results or undermine state and local authority. Fiscal discipline matters to Texas families, and it should matter in Washington, too.
How do you plan to ensure affordability for Texans in the day-to-day as well as in the housing market? I understand their concerns and we’re working hard to make life more affordable for every American, but especially for the next generation. President Trump has helped bring gas prices down and reduced federal regulations that have driven up housing costs. I was proud to stand with him as the chief vote getter for the historic Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which lowered taxes for middle-class families and doubled the Child Tax Credit, putting more money back into parents’ pockets. I was also honored to cast my vote last year to make these provisions permanent through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. There is more to do, but President Trump is leading us in the right direction.
What should Congress do, if anything, to address health care costs and access? Congress should focus on lowering health care costs and expanding access in ways that help patients first, not big insurance companies or bureaucrats. I’ve supported bills to cut prescription drug prices, expand access to rural health care, and empower consumers with Health Savings Accounts so families keep more of their hard-earned money. We must fix what’s broken and put patients and choice at the center of reform.
What should Congress do, if anything, to address security along the U.S.-Mexico border and immigration policy? We must ensure that fuding for ICE and the U.S. Border Patrol remains at the levels necessary to deport illegal aliens and defend our border. I was proud to support billions in funding for these agencies through the One Big Beautiful Bill to ensure our border remains safe and secure, and that criminal illegal aliens are removed from our streets. President Trump has delivered the most secure border in American history, and we must ensure it remains that way. I’m also proud to have fought for and secured $11 billion in reimbursement for Texas taxpayers for Operation Lone Star.
What should Congress do to ensure safety and success in Texas classrooms? Our children are our most important asset because they are the future of our state and our country. We must ensure that they have a safe learning environment and have every opportunity to succeed in school. I believe in empowering parents to make the best decision for their children’s education, and I was proud to support Governor Abbott’s school choice bill. I’ll always support solutions that lead to better educational outcomes for Texas students.
How would you approach foreign policy as a U.S. senator? We should work closely with our allies and always do what is in the best interest of the United States. Right now, China is the greatest national security threat of our time – militarily, economically, and technologically. We cannot allow China to steal American-developed advanced technologies, nor let them use American capital to modernize their military and undermine our security. I’ve led a multitude of efforts to combat Beijing’s vast espionage ambitions. America must stay strong by defending our economic security, rebuilding our industrial base to reconfigure supply chains away from China, and standing firm with our allies against Chinese aggression.
What steps, if any, should the Senate take to prepare for the rise of artificial intelligence? AI is a very powerful tool, and we must balance innovation with safety. I believe we must lead the world in AI technology, but that also means we have a responsibility to create guardrails. I support targeted, commonsense measures that protect children online, protect privacy, increase transparency, and hold bad actors accountable, without stifling innovation or empowering foreign competitors like China. I have backed efforts to crack down on AI-enabled crimes, including the generation of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), and pushed social media platforms to take greater responsibility for safety and data practices. We can promote innovation and protect the public at the same time, and we must do both to remain competitive and secure.
Wesley Hunt
Age (as of March 3): 44
Campaign website: wesleyfortexas.com
Best way for voters to reach you: wesleyfortexas.com
Occupation: Representative for Texas- 38
Education: Military Academy at West Point, Cornell University MBA, MPA, MILR (Master of Industrial and Labor Relations)
Have you run for elected office before? U.S. House of Representatives TX-38 (2023 and 2025)
Please list the highlights of your civic involvement/activism in Texas. N/A
Have you ever been arrested, charged with a crime or otherwise been part of a criminal proceeding? No
Have you been involved in a civil lawsuit or bankruptcy proceeding? No
Who are your top three campaign contributors? Texans, Texans, Texans
Why are you seeking this office? I am seeking to become the next U.S. Senator from Texas because it is time for the next generation of leadership to step into the fray and push the America First agenda across the finish line. This race must be about Texas and the values Texans represent—faith, family, and freedom.
Our Founding Fathers never intended for individuals to spend decades in the halls of the Senate. That is why I have pledged to serve no more than two terms—12 years—in the U.S. Senate, because I intend to live under the same laws I help create.
I am running for this office because John Cornyn and the DC establishment have lost touch with the American people. They no longer understand the challenges facing everyday Americans. I have traveled across the great state of Texas, listening to Texans’ concerns and answering their questions.
I promise to take Texas to Washington—not the other way around.
If elected, what would your top 3 policy priorities be? When elected as the next U.S. Senator from Texas, I will work to codify President Trump’s border policies into law. President Trump has secured the southern border and empowered CBP and ICE to restore law and order. Now Congress must act. The America First agenda is stalled; Senate leadership refuses to end the filibuster. Republicans must eliminate it and implement America First priorities.
As Energy Congressman—and Future Energy Senator—I know oil and gas remain the most reliable energy sources. Texas is blessed with the Permian Basin, one of the most strategic energy resources on earth. As demand surges, we must cut burdensome regulations, unleash American energy, create high-paying jobs, strengthen energy independence, and lower costs for Texas families.
Another priority will be eliminating fraud, waste, and abuse. Our $38.6 trillion national debt and nearly $2 trillion annual deficit threaten future generations. The Senate must stop reckless federal spending immediately.
How will you measure your success as a U.S. senator? I will measure my success as a United States Senator by results. As a freshman U.S. Congressman, I was the only representative to have a pro–oil and gas bill signed into law under the Biden administration. Among all U.S. Representatives from Texas, I hold the highest conservative voting record, with a Liberty Score of 96%. I have never wavered or compromised with the radical left to win favor with the D.C. establishment—and I never will. I have introduced a significant amount of legislation defending Texas values, including a bill to repeal the red flag law authored by John Cornyn. I have always been a staunch advocate for border security and law and order. I have always stood with Texas, and I will continue to do so.
My success will be measured by results, and as a U.S. Congressman, I have consistently delivered.
Why should voters choose you over your opponents? I represent change. I represent a new generation of leadership that will never waver in its values or morals. For too long, the D.C. establishment and Washington elites have dictated who represents the American people. I challenge those elites, and I represent the change Texans are demanding. I will carry my mission of Texas-first policies all the way to Washington and stand for faith, family, and freedom. The U.S. Senate was never meant to be a place where people go to retire—spending decades creating laws they will never live under. It is time for young, bold, America First patriots to carry President Trump’s agenda across the finish line, serve their country with honor, and then return home to care for their families and live with the laws they helped create.
As a U.S. senator, how would you interact and work with members of the opposite party? Are there specific policy ideas where you see opportunities for bipartisanship? I will never waver in my commitment to serve the people of Texas. I will never compromise with the radical left to ensure that I will continue to hold power. I will seek solutions to problems that are consistent with the values of the voters who elected me.
What is the biggest challenge facing Texas? How would you address it if elected? The biggest challenge facing Texas is ensuring that the Biden border crisis never takes root again. For four years under the Biden administration, our southern border was left wide open, putting Texans and their communities at risk. When elected as the next U.S. Senator from Texas, one of my first priorities will be to codify President Trump’s border policies into law and ensure that CBP and ICE can continue the operations that protect Texans.
What should be prioritized in federal spending that Texans care about, and what, if anything, do you believe should receive less budget allocations? The greatest existential threat to our children is the national debt. First and foremost, we must stop unnecessary spending and eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse. As a combat veteran who flew 55 combat missions over Baghdad, I understand the importance of maintaining a strong military to protect America’s sovereign borders.
Federal funding for our men and women in uniform is essential, as is funding for law enforcement agencies such as ICE and CBP, which continue to fight for Americans every single day. I believe no taxpayer dollars should be allocated to foreign wars. I have never voted to send billions of dollars overseas to fund foreign conflicts, and I never will.
America First means American funding goes to America first.
How do you plan to ensure affordability for Texans in the day-to-day as well as in the housing market? Ensuring affordability for Texans starts with the oil and gas industry. In Texas, God blessed us with abundant oil resources in the Permian Basin. As the next U.S. Senator from Texas, I will work tirelessly to cut regulations on the oil and gas industry. Once we unleash Texas oil production, the state will experience greater affordability across the board. Higher-paying jobs will become available, gas prices will decrease, housing costs will drop, and everyday goods will become more affordable. The key to affordability is unleashing Texas energy—something I have fought for as a Congressman and will continue to champion as your next Senator.
What should Congress do, if anything, to address health care costs and access? Healthcare should be treated as a free-market system. The challenges Americans face with healthcare costs and access are a direct result of the Obama administration’s policies. Now that those policies are expiring, Democrats are trying to shift the blame onto President Trump. Like every other industry in this country, healthcare should operate under free-market principles and consumer choice. The government should not dictate which providers Americans use or how much they must pay for care.
What should Congress do, if anything, to address security along the U.S.-Mexico border and immigration policy? Congress must codify President Trump’s border actions into law. As your next Senator, this will be one of my top priorities. There is no excuse for why the Senate has stalled the America First agenda and failed to codify Trump’s actions into law. After four years under the Biden administration, open border policies and the devastating impact on American communities, this is simply common sense.
What should Congress do to ensure safety and success in Texas classrooms? Arming trained teachers and school staff is a vital, common-sense security measure that transforms schools from defenseless soft targets into hardened environments. Law enforcement response times can take several minutes, and an armed first responder on-site is the only effective way to stop an active shooter in the critical first seconds of an attack.
How would you approach foreign policy as a U.S. senator? As a combat veteran who served this country in Iraq and Saudi Arabia—and who now serves in the halls of Congress—I will always put America first and will never support putting boots on the ground unless absolutely necessary. Under no circumstances should America be involved in endless wars abroad. In just the past year, the Trump administration has executed flawless military missions to dismantle Iran’s nuclear programs, take down drug cartels, and unseat a narco-terrorist from power. That is peace through strength. That is leadership. That is America First.
What steps, if any, should the Senate take to prepare for the rise of artificial intelligence? The rise of artificial intelligence is inevitable, and there is no turning back. What the Senate must do is strengthen our economy so that data centers and the communities around them can thrive. These facilities require massive amounts of reliable energy to operate, and that energy comes from the Texas oil and gas industry. Without a strong, thriving energy sector, our data centers—and the jobs and innovation they bring—cannot succeed. That begins—and ends—with the oil and gas industry. As your next Senator, I will cut burdensome regulations on the oil and gas industry to ensure that Texas’s economy—and America’s economy—is flourishing, powering the next generation of innovation while creating high-paying jobs for Texans.
Sara Canady
Did not respond.
Ken Paxton
Did not respond.
Virgil John Bierschwale
Age (as of March 3): 68
Campaign website: vbsenate.com
Best way for voters to reach you: text (325) 215-1886
Occupation: unemployed
Education: some college
Have you run for elected office before? 2020, same office
Please list the highlights of your civic involvement/activism in Texas: I’m not a politician. People need jobs which is why I’m running.
Have you ever been arrested, charged with a crime or otherwise been part of a criminal proceeding? no
Have you been involved in a civil lawsuit or bankruptcy proceeding? no
Who are your top three campaign contributors? none
Why are you seeking this office? People desperately need jobs and the media isn’t telling this story.
If elected, what would your top 3 policy priorities be? Jobs, Sharia Law, End use of taxpayer money to hire contractors who do not hire americans
How will you measure your success as a U.S. senator? People having good paying jobs that they can raise a family on.
Why should voters choose you over your opponents? None of them have a plan to deal with the lack of jobs
As a U.S. senator, how would you interact and work with members of the opposite party? Are there specific policy ideas where you see opportunities for bipartisanship? To start, I would personally meet with each and every one of them to discuss our differences
What is the biggest challenge facing Texas? How would you address it if elected? lack of good paying jobs which is increasing homelessness
What should be prioritized in federal spending that Texans care about, and what, if anything, do you believe should receive less budget allocations? end all foreign payments, and all non american subsidies/grants to organizations believing in sharia law.
How do you plan to ensure affordability for Texans in the day-to-day as well as in the housing market? End the use by private equity to buy homes in bulk and then sell them back to themselves with a huge profit.
What should Congress do, if anything, to address health care costs and access? get big pharma out of the decision making process
What should Congress do, if anything, to address security along the U.S.-Mexico border and immigration policy? border is no different than a fence. Good fences make for good neighbors.
What should Congress do to ensure safety and success in Texas classrooms? armed guards
How would you approach foreign policy as a U.S. senator? end foreign entaglements
What steps, if any, should the Senate take to prepare for the rise of artificial intelligence? Immediately stop with the implementation of taxpayer funded datacenters so that we can better understand what data they plan on collecting and storing because ultimately it may be used to target our citizens. I’ve worked in software development all my life and I’m seeing things that are not good.
Anna Bender
Did not respond.
This story was originally published February 14, 2026 at 3:00 AM.