The impeachment trial of the Texas attorney general, Ken Paxton, began on Tuesday – a rare and historic event in the state.
The ultra-conservative Paxton has a history of ethically questionable conduct that dates back to his first term in 2014, when he was fined by the Texas state securities board for violating financial laws.
Paxton’s colleagues gathered in the state chamber of the Texas capitol in Austin, preparing to cast a vote that would decide his fate. At the end of the trial, which will probably continue through the week, it will be known if Paxton will be removed from office and if he can ever hold office again.
In a 121-23 vote in May, the Republican-majority house voted to impeach Paxton, also a member of the party, on 20 articles of misconduct, immediately suspending him from office. In this trial, only 16 articles will be considered, and the remaining four will be considered at a later date.
The core of Paxton’s alleged wrongdoing involves his relationship with the Austin real estate developer Nate Paul. Paxton has been accused of illegally using his office to benefit Paul, who in return gave Paxton’s mistress, Laura Olsen, a job in his office. In early June, Paul was arrested on eight charges of making false statements to financial institutions.
Also being scrutinized are allegations that Paxton wrongly fired former employees who blew the whistle to the FBI and other agencies.
To remove Paxton from office, votes from two-thirds of the Republican-majority senate on any article of impeachment will be needed. If he is acquitted on all charges, Paxton will resume his work as attorney general. Paxton maintains his innocence.
Presiding over the impeachment trial as judge is the lieutenant governor, Dan Patrick, a controversial appointment since Paxton has contributed substantially to his campaign.
Paxton’s state-senator wife Angela is also present at the trial, but is not allowed to cast a vote due to her conflict of interests.
