Even as the possibility of another presidential run fades, Donald Trump is signaling his continued intent to shape the future of the Republican party. With a potential exit from the White House looming in 2028, observers anticipate a shift to a powerful behind-the-scenes role, a position often described as a “kingmaker” within GOP circles.
Trump recently demonstrated this potential influence with a sweeping series of endorsements delivered via his Truth Social platform. The flurry of support targeted numerous Republican candidates vying for House seats ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, showcasing a deliberate strategy to build a loyal base.
Among the most surprising endorsements was that of Mark Teixeira, the former Major League Baseball star. Trump lauded Teixeira as a “tremendous America First Candidate” for Texas’ 21st Congressional District, emphasizing his athletic achievements and framing him as a “TOTAL WINNER” both on and off the field.
The endorsements weren’t limited to newcomers. Trump also reaffirmed his support for established Texas leadership, offering his “Complete and Total Endorsement” to Governor Greg Abbott for re-election, praising him as an “exceptional Governor and man.”
Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick also received a strong endorsement, with Trump highlighting Patrick’s unwavering loyalty during past presidential campaigns. The post detailed a shared vision for Texas, focusing on border security, economic growth, and the protection of Second Amendment rights.
In total, over a dozen Texas-based candidates benefited from Trump’s public backing on Friday, signaling a significant investment in the state’s political landscape. The endorsements arrived strategically, coinciding with the final day of early voting for the March 3 primaries.
Notably absent from the list was any endorsement in the highly contested Texas Senate race. Trump has consistently refrained from taking sides in the battle between incumbent Senator John Cornyn and challengers Ken Paxton and Wesley Hunt, a silence that has drawn considerable attention.
Another omission was Representative Dan Crenshaw, the only current House Republican who did not receive a public endorsement from Trump during this recent wave of support. This lack of backing raises questions about the relationship between the two figures and potential future political alignments.
