Angela Paxton cites adultery in her divorce filing, ending 38-year marriage with embattled Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton as he launches a primary challenge against Sen. John Cornyn.
Washington, DC [US], July 11:
In a dramatic personal and political development, Texas State Senator Angela Paxton has filed for divorce from her husband, Attorney General Ken Paxton, after nearly four decades of marriage. The announcement, made Thursday, comes at a critical moment for Ken Paxton as he prepares to challenge Senator John Cornyn in the 2026 Republican Senate primary — a race already under intense scrutiny.
Angela Paxton posted on X (formerly Twitter) that she had filed for divorce “on biblical grounds” following “recent discoveries,” which she did not elaborate on publicly. However, according to a divorce petition obtained by CNN, Angela alleges that the Attorney General committed adultery, and states that the couple had been living apart since June 1, 2024.
“I believe marriage is a sacred covenant and I have earnestly pursued reconciliation,” Angela wrote. “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.”
💔 Divorce Filing Highlights Personal Crisis for AG Ken Paxton
In his own response on X, Ken Paxton said the couple had chosen to “start a new chapter,” while acknowledging the “countless political attacks and public scrutiny” that have surrounded his tenure.
“I could not be any more proud or grateful for the incredible family that God has blessed us with,” he wrote. “I remain committed to supporting our amazing children and grandchildren. I ask for your prayers and privacy at this time.”
But the split, timed with the launch of his Senate primary challenge against Cornyn, threatens to further complicate an already controversial political career.
🧨 Political Fallout: NRSC and GOP Voices Slam Ken Paxton
The National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) issued a scathing statement following the news, strongly criticizing the Texas Attorney General and signaling potential divisions within the GOP.
“What Ken Paxton has put his family through is truly repulsive and disgusting,” said NRSC Communications Director Joanna Rodriguez. “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.”
Paxton, a staunch ally of former President Donald Trump, has built his reputation as a conservative firebrand, often suing Democratic administrations over federal policies. However, his record is tainted by a string of legal and ethical scandals, including a 2023 impeachment trial in which he was accused of bribery, abuse of office, and an extramarital affair.
⚖️ Scandals, Impeachment, and Legal Troubles
The Texas House impeached Paxton last year after he sought $3.3 million in taxpayer money to settle a whistleblower lawsuit filed by former aides. They accused him of abusing his office to benefit a real estate developer, who was allegedly linked to a woman with whom Paxton had an affair.
Angela Paxton, as a sitting state senator, was present during her husband’s Senate impeachment trial but was barred from voting due to a conflict of interest. Paxton was ultimately acquitted in the Republican-controlled Senate, with Lt. Governor Dan Patrick, a close ally, presiding over the proceedings.
👀 Cornyn Reacts Cautiously, but Campaign Subtly Amplifies the News
When approached by CNN about the Paxtons’ divorce, Senator John Cornyn offered a muted response, calling it “a private matter.” Yet, Cornyn’s campaign account on X reposted local news coverage of the divorce filing, as well as the NRSC’s sharp condemnation — an unmistakable sign that the gloves are off in what could be a bitter GOP primary battle.
As Ken Paxton enters one of the most closely watched Republican primaries in the nation, his personal controversies and party infighting could become defining issues. The divorce from Angela Paxton adds a deeply personal layer to an already volatile political story — one that blends family drama, faith-based values, and the shifting loyalties of Texas conservatism.