Recent developments in the divorce case of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton have led to the unsealing of court records. This significant change occurred after Judge Robert Brotherton issued an order on Friday, allowing public access to previously confidential documents.
Background of the Case
Ken Paxton and his wife, Angela Paxton, a state senator, reached an agreement late Thursday to unseal their divorce records. This decision marked an unexpected reversal, as the couple had actively sought to keep the documents hidden from public view.
Media Involvement
Tyler Bexley, representing a coalition of media organizations advocating for transparency, expressed satisfaction with the ruling. “We’re certainly pleased with the result,” Bexley commented following the hearing. The coalition had argued for the records’ release on the grounds that, as an elected official facing multiple allegations of misconduct, Paxton’s divorce records should be publicly accessible.
Details from the Unsealed Records
- The couple entered mediation.
- Their blind trust allocated $20,000 to each party for legal expenses.
- Earlier this month, Angela Paxton requested documents relevant to the case.
- Multiple judges recused themselves before the case was assigned to Judge Brotherton.
While the records did reveal some logistical details, they did not clarify aspects regarding the couple’s financial situation, asset division, or Angela Paxton’s allegations of infidelity. Additional filings related to the divorce are expected as legal proceedings continue.
Previous Sealing of Records
Angela Paxton initially filed for divorce in July, alleging adultery, and requested the court records be sealed. A prior judge endorsed this request, leading to all associated records being classified as confidential. Initially, Ken Paxton supported this decision, arguing that public access would unfairly invade his privacy.
Controversy Surrounding the Unsealing
Despite his previous stance, Ken Paxton’s legal team claimed his desire to unseal the records had always been present. Laura Roach, one of his attorneys, stated, “Mr. Paxton has always wanted us to actually unseal it.” However, Michael Clauw, communications director for the Campaign for Accountability, expressed skepticism about this assertion. He noted the timing of the change in position suggested Paxton anticipated a loss in court.
Future of the Case
Currently, the media coalition has agreed to redact certain personal details like Social Security numbers and addresses from the public records. As the case progresses, observers are keen to see how disclosures may impact Paxton, who is facing scrutiny related to various misconduct allegations during his tenure in office.
Ken Paxton’s political future hangs in the balance as he contests John Cornyn in the Republican primary for the U.S. Senate. The implications of this divorce case could have lasting effects on his political career and public image.
