Cowboys Legend Randy White Endorses Ken Paxton in Texas Senate Race
Hall of Famer cites shared concerns over child safety and opioid crisis, voices distrust of opponent James Talarico.
Dallas Cowboys legend and Pro Football Hall of Famer Randy White has endorsed Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in the state's U.S. Senate race, praising Paxton's commitment to action and truth.
"Ken Paxton will get in there and get things done. He’s not afraid," White told OutKick. "That’s one thing I really like about Ken. He will get in there and say what needs to be said. He doesn’t hold back. He tells the truth."
White's endorsement stems from a personal relationship with Paxton and their collaboration on issues affecting children and the opioid crisis. He highlighted Paxton's support for the National Child Identification Program, which provides parents with kits to store their children's identifying information. White has served as an ambassador for the program.
"He is a big supporter of the Child ID program, which is something I’m a big supporter of — helping kids," White said.
White also shared his personal connection to the opioid crisis, having lost his son-in-law to an accidental overdose. He noted Paxton's active involvement in drug-awareness initiatives, including a public service announcement released by the attorney general's office in 2024. "Everything he does is kind of the way I think it should be done," White said of Paxton's approach.
In contrast, White expressed distrust in Paxton's opponent, James Talarico, stating, "I know Ken Paxton. I know he’s going to do what he says he’s going to do. ... This other guy, I don’t know him. But I hear what he says, and it’s different from what I believe."
White specifically cited concerns regarding transgender participation in girls' sports and bathroom access, issues on which he disagrees with Democrats and Talarico. Talarico, who previously voted against restrictions on transgender athletes in the Texas House, recently stated he would "oppose trans athletes playing in girls’ sports if it risks safety or fairness." He has also argued for local officials to make decisions on an athlete-by-athlete basis.
"I think that’s a sign that we can’t trust him," White said of Talarico. "He’s going to go with the way the wind flows, whatever he feels like is the best thing for him and what his goals are. We don’t need somebody like that."
Paxton secured the Republican nomination in May, with support from former President Donald Trump. Recent polls indicate a close general election race, with Talarico narrowly leading Paxton within the margin of error.
White also voiced strong support for former President Trump, praising his handling of the economy and foreign policy. "I love President Trump. I’m behind him 1,000%," White said.