ProPublica and Other News Organizations Fight to Unseal Texas AG Ken Paxtons Divorce Records

Published: Wednesday, September 17, 2025 at 8:30 pm

Media Organizations Fight to Unseal Records in Texas Attorney General's Divorce Case

A coalition of media organizations, including The Texas Newsroom, ProPublica, and The Texas Tribune, is challenging a court decision to seal records in the divorce case of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and his wife, State Senator Angela Paxton. The organizations filed a plea to intervene with the Collin County district court, arguing that the records should be made public due to the elected officials' positions and the public's right to information.

The media outlets contend that the grounds for divorce and the disposition of property are of significant public interest, particularly concerning integrity in public office, potential use of public resources, and transparency in judicial proceedings. They emphasize that family law cases, including divorce proceedings, are generally presumed public. The organizations also point out that the couple's political roles and Ken Paxton's recent decision to run for U.S. Senate further heighten public interest.

The filing highlights that allegations of abuse of marital assets, concealment of financial information, or personal conduct inconsistent with public responsibility are matters of public consequence. The media organizations note that Ken Paxton has faced accusations of impropriety multiple times during his time in office, including charges of fraud, abuse of office, and self-dealing. The couple's assets, which were scrutinized during Paxton's impeachment process, are also a subject of the divorce case.

Angela Paxton filed for divorce in July, accusing her husband of adultery and requesting the records be sealed. The judge initially granted her request but has since recused himself. Ken Paxton attributed the divorce to political enemies.

BNN's Perspective:

This case underscores the importance of transparency in government. While respecting the privacy of individuals is crucial, the public has a right to know about the conduct of elected officials, especially when it involves potential misuse of public resources or ethical concerns. The media's efforts to unseal these records are a vital check on power and a service to the public.

Keywords: Ken Paxton, Angela Paxton, divorce, records, public, transparency, Texas, Attorney General, media, court, sealed, impeachment, assets, impropriety, elected officials

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