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Before the vote, Toth framed himself as the true conservative in the race, openly comparing Crenshaw to a “version of Liz Cheney,” a former Republican lawmaker who became infamous for clashing with Trump during her time in Congress. Toth argued that Crenshaw’s record did not demonstrate sufficient loyalty to MAGA principles.
Toth’s campaign boasted endorsements from influential conservative groups, including the House Freedom Caucus, Turning Point USA, and Texas Right to Life, as well as support from 21 state legislators and prominent local figures. “You deserve an unwavering fighter, a Republican who walks the walk,” Cruz declared in a paid ad supporting Toth.
Crenshaw, meanwhile, rallied his own backing. He received endorsements from Rep. Jim Jordan of Ohio, Rep. Anna Paulina Luna of Florida, the National Border Patrol Council, and the National Rifle Association. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise publicly expressed hope that Crenshaw would hold onto his seat, saying he “supported” him and hoped he “pulls it out.”
Throughout the campaign, Crenshaw defended his record and his relationship with Trump. Speaking to the Houston Chronicle, he said, “My relationship with Trump is good. I work very closely with his administration. I’m close with Pete Hegseth and John Ratcliffe and Kash Patel, because this is all within my scope too on the [House] Intelligence Committee. We work very closely together with the White House. You’d have to not pay attention to any of that to think I’m not ‘Trump’ enough.”
Crenshaw’s previous primary victories suggested strong Republican support. In 2020, he ran unopposed, and in 2022 he secured roughly two-thirds of the vote, according to Ballotpedia. By 2024, his primary margin dipped to around 60%, showing a gradual erosion in his base.
Redistricting also played a role in the 2024 contest, as parts of Toth’s home district were merged into Crenshaw’s, reshaping the electoral landscape. Despite holding a fundraising advantage, Crenshaw could not overcome Toth’s conservative momentum and high-profile endorsements.
Toth will now move on to face Democratic nominee Shaun Finnie, an investment banker who ran unopposed in his primary, in November’s general election. The seat covers parts of the greater Houston area and surrounding communities, setting the stage for a high-stakes battle that will test Republican unity in the region.
