What you need to know about Texas AG Ken Paxton’s impeachment trial

Here’s what you need to get caught up on Ken Paxton’s impeachment trial in the Texas Senate.

What’s happening in the impeachment trial?

Day 1: Senators’ vote against dismissing the charges

Day 2: Paxton’s defense allege former deputies attempted a “coup”

Day 3: Former staff testifies that AG’s office was ‘hijacked’ by a Nate Paul

Follow our live blog as we cover the proceedings, which is expected to last two to six weeks.

So who is Ken Paxton?

Read our in-depth profile of the state’s top lawyer, who began his political career in Texas in 2002.

Why is Ken Paxton facing removal from office?

Who are the witnesses?

So far senators have heard from former top aides, many of whom reported Paxton to the FBI. The Dallas Morning News obtained a confidential copy of the witness list that includes businessman Nate Paul, the woman the attorney general allegedly had an affair with and political rivals.

What are the conflicts?

Many of the state senators — who are the jurors for the impeachment trial — have worked alongside Paxton in some capacity as he’s served as a legislator and attorney general for nearly two decades. But other potential conflicts are at play.

Who is Ken Paxton’s wife?

The attorney general is married to state Sen. Angela Paxton, who has represented the Collin County area in the Legislature since 2019. She must attend the trial but cannot vote in the proceedings.

What does an attorney do anyway?

The attorney general is responsible for representing Texas in litigation; defending laws and the state constitution; and approving public bond issues.

So what led up to Paxton’s impeachment trial?

This timeline details key moments in the attorney general’s time in public office, including the state criminal fraud charges he faces.