Story perspectives

Judge Strikes Down Texas Drag Ban, Paxton to Appeal

8/28/2026

Center

Judge Hittner Blocks

U.S. District Judge David Hittner ruled on August 25, 2026 that Texas Senate Bill 12, which restricts drag performances, is unconstitutional.
Attorney General Ken Paxton, a U.S. Senate candidate, was barred by Judge Hittner from enforcing the law.
Hittner said vague statute violates the First Amendment, citing Dolly Parton, Elvis Presley, Miley Cyrus.
Governor Greg Abbott signed the law in June 2023, imposing criminal penalties on performers.

Left

Judge Hittner Blocks

District Judge David Hittner ruled on August 25, 2026 that Texas Senate Bill 12, which restricts drag performances, is unconstitutional.
The ruling was hailed by plaintiff Brigitte Bandit as a victory for LGBTQ+ performers, prompting her to announce a Dolly Parton tribute.
Judge Hittner warned the statute could deem Dolly Parton’s “voluptuous” image erotic and impose $10,000 fines.
Attorney General Ken Paxton announced an appeal, calling the ruling flawed while claiming it protects children.

Blindspot

Judge David Hittner barred Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton from enforcing Senate Bill 12, preventing the state from implementing its penalties on drag performances.
Within this story's sources, this angle appears mainly in Center-leaning coverage and receives less attention in Left-leaning coverage.

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Judge Hittner Blocks

U.S. District Judge David Hittner ruled on August 25, 2026 that Texas Senate Bill 12, which restricts drag performances, is unconstitutional.
Attorney General Ken Paxton, a U.S. Senate candidate, was barred by Judge Hittner from enforcing the law.
Hittner said vague statute violates the First Amendment, citing Dolly Parton, Elvis Presley, Miley Cyrus.
Governor Greg Abbott signed the law in June 2023, imposing criminal penalties on performers.

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