Trump shakes up crowded Texas political landscape by backing Jon Bonck in high-profile GOP runoff for key congressional seat

Texas – The political landscape in Texas has taken a sharp and unexpected turn after Donald Trump threw his support behind Republican candidate Jon Bonck in a closely watched GOP primary runoff. The endorsement has injected new energy—and new tension—into the race for Texas’ 38th Congressional District, a seat left open after Wesley Hunt opted to pursue higher office instead of seeking re-election.

Bonck, a Texas salesman with a strong religious message at the center of his campaign, is now heading into the May 26 runoff with a powerful boost. Trump’s backing is widely seen as a major advantage in Republican primaries, especially in a state where his influence over the party remains strong.

Faith, messaging, and a Trump endorsement

Bonck has made his identity as a Christian conservative a defining part of his campaign. In a recently launched advertisement, he appears in church alongside his family, highlighting faith as a guiding force behind his political vision. Reinforcing that message, Bonck wrote: “We need more people in Washington that are sold out to Jesus Christ.”

🚨New Ad Alert🚨

We need more people in Washington that are sold out to Jesus Christ.

Leaders who aren’t afraid to stand on truth, protect our values, and lead with conviction. That’s the mission behind this campaign, and I’m ready to take that fight to Congress — for our… pic.twitter.com/JSr6o3UlZC

— Jon Bonck (@JonBonckTX) April 21, 2026

A day earlier, he shared a personal moment with voters by posting a photo of his wife and children heading into church, accompanied by the message: “Take your family to church!” These statements and visuals are clearly aimed at energizing faith-based voters, a key bloc within the Republican base.

Trump’s endorsement adds weight to Bonck’s campaign narrative, aligning him with the former president’s political brand while also amplifying his appeal among conservative voters who prioritize religious values. In a crowded and competitive political environment, that combination could prove decisive.

A competitive GOP runoff takes shape

Bonck’s opponent in the runoff, Shelly deZevallos, brings a very different profile to the race. A pilot and president of the West Houston Airport, she has experience in both aviation and public service. Notably, she has also been appointed to advisory boards by both Trump and Greg Abbott, giving her strong credentials within Republican circles.

DeZevallos is campaigning as a “Trump conservative,” emphasizing public safety and immigration enforcement. Her platform includes promises “to back law enforcement, crack down on violent crime, deport illegal immigrants, keep dangerous drugs off our streets.” While both candidates appeal to similar voters, their messaging highlights different priorities—Bonck leaning heavily on faith and identity, and deZevallos focusing more on law enforcement and policy.

The race has become even more interesting because Trump has chosen to endorse Bonck despite deZevallos’ ties to his administration. That decision has raised questions about strategy, loyalty, and what qualities Trump values most in candidates seeking office.

A broader political ripple effect

The contest is unfolding against a larger backdrop of political reshuffling in Texas. Hunt’s decision to run for the Senate seat currently held by John Cornyn has triggered multiple competitive races. Cornyn himself is now facing a tough GOP runoff against Ken Paxton, though notably, Trump has not endorsed either candidate in that high-profile contest.

This creates a striking contrast: while Trump is staying neutral in one of the biggest races in the state, he has stepped in decisively in the congressional runoff, signaling where he wants to shape outcomes most directly.

Looking ahead, the winner of the Republican runoff will face Democrat Melissa McDonough in the general election. McDonough has framed her campaign around economic concerns and working families, promoting messages such as “People deserve leaders who will focus on economic stability, opportunity, and policies that strengthen working families.” She has also drawn attention for participating in “No Kings” demonstrations, positioning herself in clear contrast to Trump-aligned candidates.

High stakes and uncertain outcomes

With the runoff approaching, the stakes are high for both Bonck and deZevallos. Trump’s endorsement has undoubtedly shifted momentum, but it does not guarantee victory. Voters will ultimately decide which vision they prefer—one rooted in faith-driven messaging or one centered on law enforcement and traditional conservative policy priorities.

What is clear is that this race has become a focal point in Texas politics, reflecting broader debates within the Republican Party about identity, leadership, and direction. As the May 26 runoff draws closer, all eyes will be on whether Trump’s influence once again proves decisive—or whether voters chart their own course in a rapidly evolving political landscape.