Story perspectives

Paxton to Resign in 2026, Senate Race Heats Up

12/23/2025

Summary

Story summary

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton will step down in 2026 to run for United States Senate.
Republican candidates are State Senator Joan Huffman, State Senator Mayes Middleton, Aaron Reitz (former Paxton deputy), and United States Representative Chip Roy.
Democratic candidates are Tony Box, Joe Jaworski, and Nathan Johnson, who criticize Paxton's tenure and call for integrity.
The attorney general's role has grown politically, affecting consumer protection and state agency representation.

History

Historical Context

The Texas Attorney General's Office, established in 1836, gained significant political influence after its expansion in 1999 under John Cornyn. By 2021, its budget reached $300 million, reflecting its growing role in state governance. Ken Paxton, who became attorney general in 2015, now seeks a Senate seat, highlighting the office's importance as a platform for political advancement and ongoing debates about accountability.

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Story summary

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton will step down in 2026 to run for United States Senate.
Republican candidates are State Senator Joan Huffman, State Senator Mayes Middleton, Aaron Reitz (former Paxton deputy), and United States Representative Chip Roy.
Democratic candidates are Tony Box, Joe Jaworski, and Nathan Johnson, who criticize Paxton's tenure and call for integrity.
The attorney general's role has grown politically, affecting consumer protection and state agency representation.

1 / 2