NRSC Condemns Ken Paxton's Conduct as Angela Paxton Files for Divorce Citing Adultery

Texas State Senator Angela Paxton filed for divorce from her husband, Attorney General Ken Paxton, on Thursday, July 11, 2025, after 38 years of marriage, citing "biblical grounds" and adultery. Her decision follows what she described as "recent discoveries," expressing that remaining in the marriage would not "honor God or be loving to myself, my children, or Ken." The filing in Collin County explicitly lists adultery as a ground for the dissolution of their marriage.

Ken Paxton, in a statement on X, offered a different perspective on the marital separation. He posted, "After facing the pressures of countless political attacks and public scrutiny, Angela and I have decided to start a new chapter in our lives." This statement echoes the sentiment expressed by Andrew Egger on social media, who tweeted, > "Tragically, the pressures of countless political attacks and public scrutiny ultimately proved too much for Ken Paxton, compelling him against his will to cheat on his wife."

The extramarital affair involving Ken Paxton and Laura Olson became a central focus during his 2023 impeachment trial in the Texas Senate. Prosecutors alleged that Paxton misused his office to benefit real estate developer Nate Paul, who reportedly hired Olson. Despite these allegations and the public exposure of the affair, the Republican-led Senate acquitted Paxton on all 16 articles of impeachment.

The National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) swiftly condemned Ken Paxton's actions following the divorce announcement. Joanna Rodriguez, NRSC Communications Director, issued a statement declaring, "What Ken Paxton has put his family through is truly repulsive and disgusting." This strong rebuke comes as Paxton prepares for a 2026 GOP primary challenge against incumbent Senator John Cornyn, whose campaign has subtly emphasized "character matters."

The ongoing personal and legal challenges are poised to significantly impact Paxton's political standing. Polling data indicates that approximately 24% of Texas GOP evangelical voters are now less likely to support him in light of the adultery revelations. This latest development adds another layer of complexity to the career of the Texas Attorney General, who has previously faced a 2015 felony securities fraud indictment, which was resolved through a plea deal in 2024.