• A Texas judge awarded $6.6 million to four whistleblowers fired after reporting Attorney General Ken Paxton’s alleged misconduct to the FBI, citing violations of the Texas Whistleblower Act.
• The ruling follows allegations that Paxton accepted bribes from real estate developer Nate Paul and retaliated against employees who acted in good faith to report the misconduct.
• Paxton, denying the allegations, called the decision “ridiculous” and plans to appeal while facing ongoing scrutiny and potential political ambitions, including a possible U.S. Senate run.

A Texas district court judge has awarded $6.6 million to four whistleblowers who were fired shortly after they reported allegations against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton to the FBI. This ruling marks a significant development in the ongoing scrutiny surrounding Paxton and his actions while in office.

Whistleblowers Fired After Reporting Misconduct

Travis County Judge Catherine Mauzy delivered the judgment on Friday, stating that the plaintiffs had successfully proven liability, damages, and attorneys’ fees against the Attorney General’s Office. The ruling emphasized that Paxton’s office had violated the Texas Whistleblower Act by retaliating against employees who reported alleged violations of law by Paxton and his office. These reports included claims that Paxton had accepted bribes from Austin real estate developer Nate Paul, who also employed a woman with whom Paxton was allegedly having an extramarital affair. Paxton has denied these allegations.

The court upheld that the whistleblowers acted “in good faith” when reporting the misconduct to law enforcement. Notably, Paxton’s office did not contest the claims or damages outlined in the lawsuit.

Attorney General’s Reaction and Legal Challenges

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In response, Paxton called the ruling “ridiculous” and claimed it was not based on facts or legal precedent. He announced plans to appeal the decision, signaling another phase in the protracted legal battle over his conduct. Paxton, a Republican and close ally of President Donald Trump, has faced multiple allegations of corruption during his tenure, further complicating his political career.

Background on the Case and Whistleblower Protections

Paxton first came under federal investigation in 2020 when eight employees reported his actions to the FBI. They accused him of using his position to benefit Nate Paul. Despite denying wrongdoing, Paxton agreed to a $3.3 million settlement in 2023 with four whistleblowers, offering an apology without admitting guilt. However, when Paxton sought state funds for the settlement, the Texas House rejected his request, launching its own investigation and subsequently impeaching him. The Texas Senate later acquitted him, allowing him to remain in office.

In November, the Texas Supreme Court overturned a lower court ruling requiring Paxton to testify in the whistleblower lawsuit. Though the U.S. Justice Department chose not to pursue the investigation into Paxton in the final weeks of the Biden administration, questions about his conduct continue to shadow his career.

Paxton’s Political Ambitions

Despite these controversies, Paxton is preparing for a potential U.S. Senate run. He has hinted at challenging Republican Sen. John Cornyn but has not yet announced his official plans. Paxton remains a controversial yet influential figure within the Republican Party, often aligning himself closely with President Donald Trump.

What This Means for Texas Politics

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The court ruling raises critical questions about the protection of whistleblowers and accountability in public office. With $6.6 million awarded to the plaintiffs, this case highlights the consequences of retaliation against employees who expose potential misconduct.

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