Texas Attorney General Faces Disciplinary Action Over False Election Fraud Claims

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is facing potential disciplinary action by the Texas State Bar for alleged falsehoods in a U.S. Supreme Court lawsuit seeking to overturn the 2020 presidential election results. A state appeals court has cleared the way for the disciplinary proceedings to move forward, rejecting Paxton's argument that he had sovereign immunity as the state's attorney general.

The State Bar's Commission for Lawyer Discipline claims Paxton made "misrepresentations" in the lawsuit, Texas v. Pennsylvania, which contested the election administration in several states. The commission is seeking to initiate disciplinary measures against Paxton in his personal capacity as an attorney, not as a public official. The appeals court ruled that subjecting Paxton to such proceedings does not violate separation of powers.

Paxton, a conservative ally of former President Donald Trump, had sought to overturn President Joe Biden's wins in four battleground states. However, the Supreme Court dismissed the lawsuit, stating that Texas and Paxton lacked standing. The lawsuit asserted that Texas had uncovered "substantial evidence" discrediting the election results, a claim the disciplinary committee alleges was false.

Why this matters: The disciplinary action against Paxton highlights the ongoing consequences experienced by attorneys who promoted false claims of fraud in the 2020 presidential election. It underscores the legal profession's responsibility to uphold ethical standards and maintain public trust in the integrity of the electoral process.

If the case proceeds to trial, Paxton could face a range of sanctions, from a written admonition to suspension or disbarment. While Paxton is not required to have bar membership to serve as attorney general, the disciplinary process could still impact his professional standing. Paxton's office has stated they will appeal the ruling, expressing confidence the Texas Supreme Court will not allow the State Bar's "false claims and partisan political revenge" to affect the licensure of Texas lawyers.

Key Takeaways

• Texas AG Ken Paxton faces disciplinary action by State Bar for 2020 election lawsuit.
• State appeals court rejected Paxton's claim of sovereign immunity, allowing disciplinary proceedings.
• State Bar alleges Paxton made false claims in lawsuit seeking to overturn 2020 election.
• Disciplinary action highlights consequences for attorneys promoting false election fraud claims.
• Paxton could face sanctions ranging from written admonition to suspension or disbarment.