"Texas Senate Upholds Ken Paxton's Reinstatement, Igniting Controversy"
Originally Published 2 years ago — by The Texas Tribune
The House impeachment managers' prosecution of Attorney General Ken Paxton fell short in the GOP-dominated Senate, resulting in Paxton's acquittal on all 16 articles of impeachment. Despite the House team's efforts, they were unable to convince enough Republican senators to vote against their own political self-interest, as Paxton retained significant support among conservative voters. The presentation of evidence and witness testimony was criticized for being disorganized and slow-paced, while lead defense lawyer Tony Buzbee effectively argued that the House had not proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt. Ultimately, the Republican senators' decision to acquit Paxton was driven by political considerations and the desire to appeal to the hyper-partisan Republican primary electorate.