As speculation grows around a potential Texas Senate race, Wesley Hunt is not avoiding controversy—he’s confronting it. In an exclusive interview with Joe Pags, the Army combat veteran addressed recent criticism from Washington insiders while outlining why he believes the U.S. Senate has drifted from decisive leadership.
Hunt pushed back on reporting from Politico, which highlighted missed procedural votes as part of what allies describe as an early establishment effort to undercut his credibility. Rather than sidestepping the issue, Hunt explained that many of the votes cited involved symbolic or low-impact measures scheduled while members were meeting with constituents or engaged in policy work outside Washington. He framed the attacks as a familiar tactic used against candidates who challenge the status quo.
“I am working harder now than I’ve ever worked in my entire life,” Hunt said, emphasizing that his focus has been on border security, military readiness, and direct engagement with Texans—not playing to insider expectations. He argued that the controversy reflects a deeper divide between lawmakers focused on optics and those focused on outcomes.
Hunt also contrasted his approach with long-serving senators, noting that John Cornyn has been in Washington since Hunt was still an infant. The point, he said, is not personal—but institutional. According to Hunt, longevity in office has too often translated into caution, compromise, and procedural inertia at a time when voters are demanding speed and clarity.
Drawing on his background as an Apache helicopter pilot and combat officer, Hunt stressed that leadership—whether in uniform or government—requires standards and accountability. He criticized what he described as ideological distractions within the military and praised recent U.S. operations abroad, including actions in Venezuela, as examples of what happens when readiness takes precedence over politics. “What matters is standards,” Hunt said, underscoring his belief that effectiveness must come before identity or ideology.
Looking ahead, Hunt made clear that he is not seeking a ceremonial role in Washington. He rejected what he called the Senate’s “retirement culture” and signaled openness to structural reforms—including changes to Senate rules—to advance border enforcement and national security priorities. “The United States Senate is not a retirement community,” he said, framing the chamber as a place that should function with urgency rather than deference to tradition.
By addressing criticism directly and leaning into the fight, Hunt positioned himself as a candidate willing to challenge both Democrats and entrenched Republicans. The full interview with Joe Pags expands on Hunt’s response to the controversy, his vision for the Senate, and why he believes Texas voters are ready for a more confrontational brand of leadership.