Media Outlets Challenge Texas AG Ken Paxton to Unseal Divorce Records

ProPublica and Other News Organizations Fight to Unseal Texas AG Ken Paxton's Divorce Records A group of eight state and national media organizations is seeking to unseal the divorce records of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, arguing that they are of public interest in light of his bid for a U.S. Senate seat. The organizations, including ProPublica, The Texas Newsroom, and The Texas Tribune, filed a plea to intervene with the Collin County district court handling the Paxtons case on Tuesday. They argue that the records should be made available to the public because they could provide insight into Paxton's personal life and potential conflicts of interest. "We believe that the public has a right to know about the Attorney General's personal life, especially given his position as the state's top law enforcement official," said Lauren McGaughy, a reporter with The Texas Newsroom. "As he runs for U.S. Senate, it's only fair that voters have access to information about his personal life and any potential conflicts of interest." The organizations' filing requests that the court reverse a July decision to seal the records. In their argument, they point out that Paxton has been open about his personal life in the past, including discussing his marriage on social media. Paxton's office did not comment on the matter, but a spokesperson for the Attorney General said that the decision to seal the records was made to protect the privacy of those involved. "The Attorney General's office is committed to protecting the privacy of all individuals involved in court proceedings," the spokesperson said. The issue has sparked debate among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Some argue that the public has a right to know about Paxton's personal life, while others believe that his privacy should be protected. "This is a matter of public interest, and we believe that the records should be unsealed," said a spokesperson for the Texas Freedom Network, an advocacy group that supports transparency in government. "The public deserves to know about any potential conflicts of interest or issues that could impact Paxton's ability to serve as Attorney General." The case is ongoing, with a hearing scheduled for later this month. The outcome will determine whether the records are made available to the public. Background: Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has been married to state Sen. Angela Paxton since 2003. The couple has filed for divorce in Collin County court, citing irreconcilable differences. The case is being handled by a private attorney, rather than the Attorney General's office. The issue of unsealing the records has sparked debate among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Some argue that the public has a right to know about Paxton's personal life, while others believe that his privacy should be protected. Additional Perspectives: A spokesperson for the Texas Republican Party said that the party supports transparency in government but also believes that individuals' privacy should be respected. "We understand the importance of transparency, but we also believe that individuals have a right to their private lives," the spokesperson said. The case is ongoing, with a hearing scheduled for later this month. The outcome will determine whether the records are made available to the public. *Reporting by Propublica.*