Fact Check: Ken Paxton has promoted himself as a defender of biblical values while cheating.

What We Know

Ken Paxton, the Texas Attorney General, has publicly identified as a staunch defender of conservative and biblical values throughout his political career. However, recent events have brought his personal life into question, particularly regarding allegations of infidelity. In September 2018, Paxton reportedly confessed to his staff about an extramarital affair, claiming it was over and promising to recommit to his marriage with his wife, Angela Paxton, a Texas state senator. Despite this confession, evidence suggests he continued the affair, which became a focal point during his impeachment trial in 2023 (Texas Tribune). Angela Paxton recently filed for divorce on "biblical grounds," citing "recent discoveries" that led her to believe the marriage no longer honored God (Daily Beast).

Analysis

The claim that Ken Paxton has promoted himself as a defender of biblical values while engaging in infidelity is substantiated by multiple sources. His public persona has been that of a conservative Christian, yet the allegations against him indicate a significant contradiction between his public declarations and private actions. During his impeachment trial, it was argued that Paxton went to great lengths to conceal his affair from both his wife and his religious constituents, which included alleged abuses of his office to protect his interests and those of his associates (Texas Tribune).

Angela Paxton's decision to file for divorce on biblical grounds further underscores the severity of the situation. She expressed that the marriage, which she viewed as a sacred covenant, was compromised by Ken's actions. Her statement indicates a profound personal conflict between her husband's public image and his private behavior (Daily Beast). The impeachment trial itself, which was heavily centered around his infidelity and the subsequent cover-up, reinforces the narrative of hypocrisy in Paxton's public persona (Texas Tribune).

The sources used in this analysis are credible, with the Texas Tribune being a well-respected news organization known for its in-depth reporting on Texas politics. The Daily Beast and other outlets also provide substantial coverage of the events surrounding Paxton's personal and political life, although they may carry a more sensational tone.

Conclusion

The claim that Ken Paxton has promoted himself as a defender of biblical values while engaging in infidelity is True. The evidence from multiple reputable sources indicates that his actions contradict the values he publicly espouses, culminating in significant personal and political ramifications, including his wife's recent filing for divorce on biblical grounds.

Fact Check: Ken Paxton has promoted himself as a defender of biblical values while cheating.