In a stunning turn of events, Texas State Sen. Angela Paxton has filed for divorce from Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, alleging infidelity as the primary reason for the split.
According to Breitbart, this filing, made on Thursday in Collin County, Texas, comes after years of personal and political strife surrounding Ken Paxton, including public revelations of an extramarital affair during his 2023 impeachment trial.
The Paxtons, married for 38 years, have been living separately since June 2024. Angela Paxton’s petition cites adultery as a key factor in her decision to end the marriage. She expressed deep personal conflict in her filing, stating, “But, in light of recent discoveries, I do not believe that it honors God or is loving to myself, my children, or Ken to remain in the marriage.”
The roots of this personal turmoil trace back to Ken Paxton’s 2023 impeachment trial, initiated by the Texas House of Representatives. During the trial, allegations of an extramarital affair emerged as a significant issue, with testimony linking the affair to improper conduct in office. House prosecution managers presented evidence through a key witness who raised concerns about blackmail tied to Paxton’s personal life.
Jeff Mateer, Paxton’s former First Assistant, provided damning testimony about the affair and unusual actions involving Paxton donor Natin “Nate” Paul, an Austin real estate developer. Mateer stated, “By that time, I concluded that Mr. Paxton was engaged in immoral, unethical conduct, and I had the good faith belief that it was illegal.” Nate Paul became a central figure in the trial, accused of offering financial favors to Paxton, including employing Paxton’s alleged mistress, Laura Olson.
Katherine “Missy” Minter Cary, Paxton’s former chief of staff, also testified about the impact of Paxton’s personal life on state business. She recalled confronting Paxton after complaints from staff, including his security detail and personal assistant, about his relationship with Olson disrupting office morale. Cary bluntly told him, “I told General Paxton quite bluntly it wasn’t my business who he was sleeping with, but when things bleed over into the office and into the state work, it becomes my business.”
Cary also expressed sympathy for Angela Paxton during the ordeal, saying, “My heart broke for her [Angela].” She added, “This was not state business.” Staff reported additional discomfort when Angela Paxton called the office looking for Ken, placing employees in awkward positions.
Further testimony revealed ethical worries, with Cary discussing potential bribery risks and misuse of state resources with Paxton. In September 2018, Ken Paxton admitted to an affair in a meeting with Angela and senior staff. Despite this confession, Cary learned in 2019 that the relationship with Olson had not ended.
During the impeachment trial, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick noted that Laura Olson was summoned as a witness by House Managers but was ultimately unavailable. Patrick stated, “She is present but has been deemed unavailable to testify.” This absence left some questions unanswered during the high-profile proceedings.
In her divorce petition, Angela Paxton, represented by KoonsFuller, P.C., requested temporary orders for Ken Paxton to cover interim legal fees and related expenses. She stated she lacks control over sufficient shared assets to manage these costs independently. Angela also sought court-ordered support payments for mortgage and other expenses on their shared home until the divorce is finalized. Additionally, Angela Paxton asked the court to prevent Ken Paxton from entering their marital residence during the proceedings. She also requested restrictions on his access to her business accounts and personal electronic devices. These measures indicate a desire to establish clear boundaries amidst the separation.
The divorce filing coincides with Ken Paxton’s political ambitions, as he announced a challenge against longtime Republican Sen. John Cornyn in April. Breitbart News reported on Thursday about the potential impact of this personal drama on the upcoming race. The outlet noted, “Whether or how the latest developments in Paxton’s personal life will impact the race is uncertain, but with the drama rising and the attacks from each candidate and their allies growing increasingly personal, all eyes in Texas and Washington will be watching.”
President Donald Trump recently met with Senate GOP leaders, including Sen. John Thune, to discuss key 2026 races, with the Texas contest between Paxton and Cornyn under scrutiny. A source familiar with the meeting indicated the White House is observing the primary but has not yet taken sides, awaiting shifts in polling data. This political backdrop adds another layer of complexity to the Paxtons’ challenges.
Joanna Rodriguez, a communications staffer for the National Republican Senatorial Committee, commented on the situation, saying, “What Ken Paxton has put his family through is truly repulsive and disgusting.” She continued, “No one should have to endure what Angela Paxton has, and we pray for her as she chooses to stand up for herself and her family during this difficult time.” Ken Paxton, in response, issued a statement asking for understanding, stating, “After facing the pressures of countless political attacks and public scrutiny, Angela and I have decided to start a new chapter in our lives.”
He also appealed for compassion, adding, “For your prayers and privacy at this time.” The unfolding divorce saga, intertwined with past scandals and future political battles, continues to draw significant attention. As Angela Paxton moves forward with legal proceedings, the personal and professional ramifications for both parties remain to be seen.