Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton‘s impeachment trial began on Wednesday with key witness testimony. Paxton himself did not attend the trial, and it remains uncertain how much he will participate. The trial is centered around allegations that Paxton abused his office to aid a real estate developer named Nate Paul. Jeff Mateer, one of Paxton’s former aides who reported him to the FBI, testified that he confronted Paxton about why he seemed to go out of his way to help one of his donors. Mateer’s testimony highlights the claim that Paxton’s office was being used for the benefit of one person.
The trial could last for weeks and includes a list of more than 100 potential witnesses. These include other former close aides of Paxton and a woman with whom he had an extramarital affair and who worked for Paul. Despite the gravity of the trial, Paxton is not required to attend all the proceedings, and he pleaded not guilty before his defense team criticized the impeachment and urged Republican senators to acquit.
If convicted, Paxton could be barred from holding elected office in Texas. The Texas Senate, which is conducting the trial, is dominated by Republicans who are generally supportive of the attorney general. However, a two-thirds majority is required for conviction, meaning that at least nine Republicans would have to vote against Paxton if all the Democrats vote against him.
The trial marks a rare instance of a party seeking to hold one of its own accountable in a deeply divided political climate. For years, many Texas Republicans have avoided confronting the numerous legal problems surrounding Paxton, who has remained popular among the far right by aligning himself closely with former President Donald Trump. The impeachment trial will determine the future of Paxton’s political career and could have implications for the state’s political landscape.
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Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s Impeachment Trial Begins with Key Witness Testimony, US
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