Former Congressman Matt Gaetz endorsed Rep. Chip Roy for Texas Attorney General, injecting national attention into the already heated race.
Roy, a longtime fiscal conservative and budget hawk, has been praised by many Republicans for his focus on spending restraint and constitutional limits on government.
“Chip Roy has the right stuff. He’s a smart, tough Texan and has my full endorsement for Attorney General!” Gaetz wrote on X.
As previously reported by The Dallas Express, Roy launched his campaign in August, touting his experience as a federal prosecutor and first assistant attorney general. In announcing his run, Roy said, “I’ve been in the trenches fighting for the rule of law, and I believe Texans deserve an Attorney General who will put our Constitution and our people first.”
Roy’s candidacy has sparked debate within Republican circles, though he has also drawn support from grassroots figures such as former congressional candidate Brandon Herrera. Herrera, who ran for TX-23, praised him on X:
“Chip was bold enough to break establishment lines and endorse me in my race against Tony Gonzales last cycle. I’ll always appreciate that, and his defense of the Constitution above all else in DC. Looking forward to what he’ll be able to accomplish here at home.”
Gaetz’s endorsement prompted a range of reactions online, including from some Trump-aligned voters who questioned Roy’s past positions.
“Bad endorsement from Matt. Chip sided with LIZ CHENEY on Jan6 and here you are siding with Chip? You gotta be kidding me. Chip is the opposite of MAGA,” Tom Slocum posted on X.
Another user, Ana, dismissed Gaetz’s move: “When did you move to Texas? Oh, right. Stay out of Texas politics. We don’t need or want you any more than we want soyboy Roy.”
The race for attorney general has already drawn national attention, reflecting divisions within the Republican Party over tone and priorities heading into 2026.
Editor’s note: This article has been updated.