AG Paxton sues more local school districts accusing them of electioneering

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated lawsuits against the Castleberry and Denison Independent School Districts (ISDs), alleging unlawful endorsement of specific political candidates and policies using official resources. This follows earlier lawsuits against the Denton and Frisco school districts, accusing them of similar electioneering practices.

Paxton stated that Denison ISD promoted its preferred policy agenda on its website and expressed support or opposition to particular political candidates. Additionally, a resolution approved by Denison ISD’s Board of Trustees was posted, further endorsing specific political measures.

Similarly, the superintendent of Castleberry ISD allegedly endorsed political candidates via her official email account, instructing district management to “vote accordingly.”

Expressing concern over this pattern of government officials engaging in illegal electioneering, Paxton emphasized the importance of adherence to laws, particularly by individuals tasked with educating children.

Paxton’s office announced that they obtained an injunction in the Castleberry case, with the district agreeing that the superintendent and all employees would refrain from using any funds or resources, including emails, for illegal electioneering.

In the Frisco case, Paxton’s office obtained a temporary restraining order, instructing Frisco ISD to cease activities triggering the state’s lawsuit.

Texas law strictly prohibits publicly funded educational institutions and personnel from using official resources for political agendas. While the Attorney General’s Office cannot currently prosecute offenders, local law enforcement may pursue charges against the districts for illegal electioneering.

Paxton affirmed his commitment to ongoing efforts to prevent improper use of state resources by public officials to influence elections in Texas.