As Texas prepares for primary elections in March, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is throwing his support behind another slate of Republican challengers, as well as a few incumbents.
Paxton announced one slate of challenger endorsements last month following his acquittal on all impeachment charges by the Texas Senate.
He also endorsed several GOP challengers to state representatives in Collin County—where he resides—during a Republican Party meeting in October. All of the incumbents voted to impeach Paxton.
Now, Paxton has endorsed the following candidates:
Carrie de Moor, who is running for the open Senate District 30 seat being vacated by Drew Springer (R-Muenster).
Travis Clardy, who is the incumbent lawmaker for House District 11. Clardy has a record of opposing school choice legislation, but spoke out against impeaching Paxton and has proposed legislation to reform the impeachment process.
Keresa Richardson, who is challenging State Rep. Frederick Frazier (R-Dallas) for House District 61. Paxton also previously endorsed another Frazier challenger, Chuck Branch.
Vince Gallo, who is challenging State Rep. Ben Bumgarner (R-Flower Mound) for House District 63.
Mitch Little, who is challenging State Rep. Kronda Thimesch (R-Lewisville) for House District 65. Little was one of the lawyers who defended Paxton during his impeachment proceedings.
Kerri Kingsbery, who is challenging State Rep. David Spiller (R-Jacksboro) for House District 68.
John Smithee, who is the incumbent lawmaker for House District 88. Smithee passionately protested the manner in which the House chose to go about impeaching Paxton. He is being challenged by parental rights advocate Jamie Haynes.
Cynthia Figueroa, who is challenging State Rep. Jared Patterson (R-Frisco) for House District 106. Patterson says he is “preparing for” a run for the open Senate District 30 seat.
“It’s time for a spring cleaning in Austin,” said Paxton. “Look forward to their victory and will [sic] see you all on the campaign trail.”
The Republican primary election will take place on March 5, 2024.
