TX House just voted to impeach Paxton. Vote was VERY fast. 121 Yea, 23 Nay, 3 PNV (present not voting)
You can view recorded video of Texas House hearings here.
No one testified to defend Paxton. Complaints mainly revolved around the process, fairness and due process. There were complaints about only having 48 hours notice and having to spend Saturday afternoon in session over a holiday weekend.
Other complaints in opposition involved no direct witness testimony and that there was “no testimony under oath.” Someone pointed to sworn statements in litigation documents from the whistleblower suit and another suit involving a non-profit that Paxton’s office improperly meddled in.
There were suggestions that the process had the “appearance” of political “weaponization” and comparisons were made to previous impeachments in 1917 and 1975.
Even opponents had nothing but praise for the Committee and the “honorability” of its members. Several of the opponents also noted that the allegations/charges were “serious, alarming, and stunning.”
General Investigating Committee Chairman Murr held his ground on defending the process. The House rules have changed since prior impeachments, and they followed the rules and the Constitution to the letter.
Rep. Charlie Geren and at least one other Representative stated that they received “threatening” phone calls from Paxton as they sat at their desks—which sounds to me like another crime. Hope somebody reported it.
Paxton will be immediately removed from office.
Governor Greg Abbott will appoint someone else as AG.
There will be a full trial in the Texas Senate. One of the Senators is Paxton’s wife Angela.
Only in Texas...