Ken Paxton impeachment investigation expands into attorney general’s real estate spending

Prosecutors Expand Investigation into Texas Attorney General’s Real Estate Dealings

Prosecutors in the impeachment of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton have recently broadened their investigation into his real estate transactions. The Wall Street Journal has revealed that the focus of their scrutiny is $3.5 million worth of properties purchased by Paxton and his family after he became the subject of a federal investigation.

These properties, acquired between July 2021 and April 2022, include residences located in Oklahoma, Hawaii, Utah, and Florida. What has raised suspicions among investigators is the significant amount spent on these properties, considering Paxton’s annual salary of $153,750 and his wife’s income of $7,200 as a state senator.

Denial of Wrongdoing

Paxton’s attorneys vehemently deny any wrongdoing, asserting that he simply utilized his long-term savings for these real estate investments.

“General Paxton decided to direct much of his long-term savings from a brokerage account to real estate,” stated Tony Buzbee, Paxton’s attorney in the impeachment trial. “He did so at a time with low interest rates, believing it was a better long-term investment to provide for his family. There is nothing more to it than that.”

It is important to note that Paxton’s impeachment is currently unrelated to his private wealth. The attorney general is facing impeachment charges related to allegations of bribery, obstruction of justice, and misappropriation of public resources. These accusations primarily stem from whistleblower claims regarding misconduct in an investigation involving a close friend and political donor of Paxton’s.

The evidence presented to the Texas House was deemed sufficient for impeachment by 121 state representatives, nearly half of whom were Republicans. Paxton’s trial will take place in the state Senate.

However, if investigators uncover any potential wrongdoing in relation to the purchase of his residences, additional charges could be brought against Paxton. These new discoveries may also serve as evidence to support the existing bribery charges.

Click here to read more from The Washington Examiner.