AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — A Texas appeals court has ruled that Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton can face discipline from the state bar association over his failed effort to overturn the 2020 presidential election.
A disciplinary committee of the State Bar of Texas accused Paxton in 2022 of making false claims of fraud in a lawsuit that questioned President Joe Biden’s victory. On Thursday, a three-judge panel of the 5th District Court of Appeals said Paxton can be sanctioned by the committee because the lawsuit seeks to punish him in his personal capacity as an attorney and not as a public official.
“The focus of the Commission’s allegations is squarely on Paxton’s alleged misconduct — not that of the State,” Judge Erin Nowell, an elected Democrat, wrote in the 2-1 opinion.
The lone Republican on the panel, Judge Emily Miskel, was in dissent.
Airshow China kicks off in port city Zhuhai
Thousands protest in Niger demanding withdrawal of U.S. troops
Roundup: Africa Climate Summit highlights urgency of green transition amid financing bottlenecks
Xi extends sympathy to Japanese PM over COVID
Mainland's adjustment to Straits flight route serves aviation safety
Roundup: Africa Climate Summit highlights urgency of green transition amid financing bottlenecks
Nadal returns to Roland Garros to practice amid doubts over fitness and form
Chinese investment in Africa hits $1.8b in 1st half of 2023
Pope trip to Luxembourg, Belgium confirmed for September, 2 weeks after challenging Asia visit
South Africa sees over 1 mln travelers during Easter holiday