Resignation rumors swirling around Attorney General Ken Paxton were refuted by the man himself on Saturday. Despite speculation about his potential resignation before the impending trial, Paxton took to social media to assert his dedication: “Wrong! I will never stop fighting for the people of Texas and defending our conservative values.” This statement directly contradicts the whispers, especially considering Paxton’s restricted ability to publicly discuss the pending trial.
Paxton’s legal counsel echoed his sentiment. Defense attorney Dan Cogdell dismissed the notion, saying, “Whomever is saying that must be talking to a different Ken Paxton than I am.”
Initial reports of Paxton’s rumored resignation surfaced on social media via Quorum Report. Adding fuel to the fire, Paxton’s name stood at the forefront of witnesses lined up by House impeachment managers for the upcoming trial. Yet, House prosecutors remain resolute: the trial will proceed regardless of Paxton’s status. A source close to the managers emphasized their commitment: “The House managers intend to fulfill their Constitutional duty and proceed with an impeachment trial. Resignation does not prevent a trial. The Constitution is clear that a Senate trial is required after the House has voted to impeach.”
Dick DeGuerin, part of the team representing the House managers, expressed readiness for the September 5 trial kickoff. Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, who will preside over the trial, addressed additional speculation about “back-channel” conversations with Paxton’s team, labeling it a fabrication: “There are no ‘back-channel’ conversations with any party to the proceedings. This is a fabricated story.”
Looking back in history, the Texas Constitution dictates that an impeachment of a state official must be tried by the Senate. The closest parallel harks back almost a century to 1924, during Governor James “Pa” Ferguson’s impeachment. In that case, Ferguson resigned only after the Senate’s conviction, preempting his removal by a mere day.
With the House’s decisive 121-23 vote in late May, Paxton faced immediate suspension from office. The trial itself won’t encompass criminal charges, as the Senate’s decision will decide his permanent removal. Paxton stands accused of bribery, abuse of office, and obstruction, marking a tenure plagued by controversy and criminal charges.
The Senate trial is set to commence on September 5, where Paxton’s fate will be determined by a two-thirds majority of the Texas Senate. Conviction on any of the impeachment articles will lead to his removal from office.
