Texas Judge Awards $6.6 Million to Ken Paxton’s Ex-Aides

Four former senior aides to Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton have won a $6.6 million judgment after a judge ruled they were wrongfully terminated for reporting their boss to the FBI over alleged corruption in 2020. The decision caps a years-long legal saga that exposed deep rifts in Paxton’s office and fueled broader scrutiny of his tenure amid multiple scandals.

The aides blew the whistle on Paxton’s ties to a donor. They claimed he abused his office to aid a friend, Nate Paul.

Paul, a real estate developer, faced federal charges himself. He pleaded guilty in January to bank fraud unrelated to Paxton.

The whistleblowers faced swift retaliation after their report. All four were fired within weeks, sparking the lawsuit.

Paxton never contested the case’s facts in court. The judge noted his silence as key to the ruling against him.

The $6.6 million covers lost wages and damages. It’s a rare financial hit for a state official in such a case.

This win follows Paxton’s 2023 impeachment acquittal. That trial also stemmed from the same corruption claims.

The aides’ victory adds pressure on Paxton’s leadership. He’s hinted at a U.S. Senate run despite ongoing legal woes.

Federal probes into Paxton have since closed without charges. The Justice Department dropped its bribery case in early 2025.

Texas taxpayers may foot the bill for the award. State funds often cover such judgments, raising public ire.

The ruling highlights whistleblower protections in Texas. It could embolden others to speak out in state agencies.

Paxton’s office has stayed mum on the verdict. His next moves remain unclear as political ambitions loom large.