'Recent discoveries': Democrats may have new opportunity in deep-red state's Senate race
10 July
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton (R) on September 30, 2023 (Image: Screengrab via Texas Scorecard / YouTube)
Texas State Senator Angela Paxton (R) announced on Thursday that she has officially filed for divorce from her husband, Texas Attorney General and U.S. Senate candidate Ken Paxton (R), citing “recent discoveries.”
In a post on the social platform X, she wrote: “Today, after 38 years of marriage, I filed for divorce on biblical grounds. I believe marriage is a sacred covenant and I have earnestly pursued reconciliation. But in light of recent discoveries, I do not believe that it honors God or is loving to myself, my children, or Ken to remain in the marriage.”
She continued with faith-driven reassurance.
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“I move forward with complete confidence that God is always working everything together for the good of those who love Him and who are called according to His purpose.”
Angela and Ken Paxton have been married since 1986 and have four children together.
The Texas Attorney General issued his own message, attributing the split to “countless political attacks and public scrutiny.”
He wrote on X: “After facing the pressures of countless political attacks and public scrutiny, Angela and I have decided to start a new chapter in our lives.”
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In his statement, he added that he’s immensely proud and thankful for the “incredible family that God has blessed us with,” and reaffirmed his dedication to their children and grandchildren. He also appealed for “prayers and privacy at this time.”
The development led to wide-ranging commentary on social media.
The Washington Post reporter Natalie Alison wrote X: "Ken Paxton's wife said she has filed for divorce on biblical grounds. The Bible cites two valid reasons: Adultery, or an unbelieving spouse leaving the marriage. (Her statement seems to indicate the former)."
Politico reporter Ben Jacobs wrote: "The tweet from Angela Paxton announcing her divorce certainly strikes a different tone than the tweet from Ken Paxton on the topic."
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Journalist Yashar Ali wrote: "Senator Angela Paxton, who is married to Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, a candidate for the U.S. Senate, says she has filed for divorce. Attorney General Paxton has a history of infidelity."
Democratic strategist Joanna Rodriguez wrote: "What Ken Paxton has put his family through is truly repulsive and disgusting. No one should have to endure what Angela Paxton has, and we pray for her as she chooses to stand up for herself and her family during this difficult time."
"Democrats…you may have a chance to get the Texas Senate seat. HOLD THE LINE.Ken Paxton might be touchable," wrote a user.
Last month, the State of Texas submitted motions to dismiss the felony securities fraud charges against Paxton.
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More than a year ago, Paxton entered an agreement to pay nearly $300,000 in restitution, complete 100 hours of community service, and undergo ethics training, according to the Associated Press.
Special prosecutors confirmed in June that Paxton has met all the requirements of that deal.
In April, Paxton officially launched his campaign for the U.S. Senate for the 2026 election, joining the primary against incumbent Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas).