June 8, 2026

In a stunning development in Texas politics, Attorney General Ken Paxton, who is currently running for a Senate seat, finds himself deserted by those closest to him, raising serious questions about his suitability for higher office. Not only is Paxton's marriage on the rocks, with his wife conspicuously absent from his list of endorsers, but his own lawyer, who defended him through serious legal battles, has now thrown his support behind Paxton's Democratic opponent.
Dan Cogdell, a seasoned criminal defense attorney from Houston, has represented Paxton through both his impeachment trial and a protracted securities fraud case. However, Cogdell's recent endorsement of Democratic nominee James Talarico signals a profound shift. Speaking to NOTUS, Cogdell expressed his disillusionment with Paxton, stating that Paxton "has lost sight of his core mission, which is to represent the people of Texas." According to Cogdell, Talarico represents "unity over division" and possesses the ability to unite a broad political spectrum, qualities he finds lacking in Paxton.
Cogdell's political contributions underscore his shifting loyalties. After donating $6,500 to Paxton's campaign last year, he recently contributed $1,000 to Talarico's campaign, further emphasizing his change of heart. His political views, particularly his critical stance on former President Trump, whom he labeled "the greatest threat to Democracy our country's ever seen," have also been spotlighted in Republican circles, drawing ire and leading to a brief feature in a now-deleted attack ad by the National Republican Senatorial Committee.
Talarico is capitalizing on this unexpected support, reaching out to voters across the political spectrum. He assured that everyone, including Republicans disillusioned with government corruption and even Paxton's impeachment lawyer, has a place in his campaign, signaling an inclusive approach to his political journey.
In a personal twist, the legal battle on Paxton's home front seems to be reaching a resolution. Originally set for trial on June 24, the divorce proceedings have been canceled as both parties reportedly near an amicable settlement. This development could spare Paxton the public exposure of adultery allegations amid his Senate race.
As this political drama unfolds, Paxton's ability to govern effectively and maintain the trust of his constituents continues to be scrutinized, both in the legal arena and in the court of public opinion. Meanwhile, his opponents are poised to use these developments to their advantage, framing Paxton's personal and professional controversies as indicative of his unsuitability for further political office.