Ken Paxton's Texas Senate Bid Marred by Scandal
Allegations of marital infidelity, illegal activities, and impeachment proceedings continue to surface as Attorney General Ken Paxton campaigns for the U.S. Senate.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton's bid for a U.S. Senate seat is entangled in a series of long-standing scandals, including allegations of marital infidelity, questionable business dealings, and a contentious impeachment trial. These controversies have persisted throughout his career and resurfaced as he seeks higher office.
Paxton, who was impeached by the Texas House of Representatives in May 2023 on accusations of bribery and abuse of office, was later acquitted by the State Senate. However, the impeachment proceedings brought to light details about his personal and professional life. During the impeachment hearing, details emerged regarding Paxton's relationship with Laura Olson, a former aide. His own defense lawyers shared information about this relationship in legal motions filed as part of the impeachment process.
Adding to the controversy, Paxton's wife, Angela Paxton, filed for divorce in July 2025, citing "biblical grounds" and alleging adultery. The divorce proceedings are ongoing and have yet to be resolved. Prior to his current marriage, Ken Paxton married Angela Allen in 1986, whom he met while studying at Baylor University. She filed for divorce in 2025, which remains unresolved.
The scandals also extend to Paxton's alleged involvement in questionable activities. He was reportedly seen in Dubai in July 2025 with Christian influencer Tracy Duhon, who is described as his girlfriend. Images captured during this time show them sightseeing in London as well. Paxton was also documented on video attending a party in Dubai alongside two American businessmen who had been indicted on federal healthcare fraud charges.
Paxton's political career began in 2003 when he was elected to the Texas House of Representatives. He became a state senator a decade later. In 2021, he was a speaker at the Trump "Save America" rally in Washington D.C. on January 6, which preceded the attack on the U.S. Capitol.
Despite the mounting controversies, Paxton remains the Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate in Texas. The race is reportedly close, with political analysts noting the continued relevance of these scandals as the campaign progresses. He is currently campaigning against James Talarico for the seat.