The bureau is probing allegations that Paxton broke the law by using the attorney general’s office to serve the interests of a political donor, two unnamed sources told the Associated Press.
The FBI is investigating Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, the Associated Press reported Tuesday evening, vetting allegations made by eight of Paxton’s former top aides that he illegally used the power of his office to benefit a political donor.
Two unnamed sources told the AP that the bureau was examining claims made by the whistleblowers that Paxton broke the law by intervening several times in legal matters involving Nate Paul, a real estate investor and friend who donated $25,000 to Paxton’s campaign in 2018.
On Sept. 30 and Oct. 1, eight aides in total told authorities that they believed Paxton had committed crimes as part of his relationship with Paul, citing bribery and abuse of office. Since then, four aides have been fired, three have resigned, and one has been placed on leave — sparking a whistleblower lawsuit.
BY EMMA PLATOFF with Texas Tribune.
Photo: Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton spoke at the 2017 Texas Federation of Republican Women Convention in Dallas. Credit: Laura Buckman for The Texas Tribune
Photo: Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton spoke at the 2017 Texas Federation of Republican Women Convention in Dallas. Credit: Laura Buckman for The Texas Tribune
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