Angela Paxton files for divorce from Ken Paxton after 38 years of marriage on 'biblical grounds'

WASHINGTON, DC: Texas state Senator Angela Paxton announced on X that she has filed for divorce from her husband of 38 years, Attorney General Ken Paxton. The announcement comes as Ken Paxton mounts a primary challenge against US Senator John Cornyn. 

Shortly after, Ken Paxton confirmed the news on social media, saying the couple had mutually decided to begin “a new chapter” and asked for privacy and prayers. Though the exact reasons remain unclear, CNN reported that the divorce filing accuses Ken Paxton of adultery and states the couple has been living apart since around June 1, 2024.

Angela Paxton divorces Ken Paxton after 38 years of marriage

On July 10, Angela Paxton shared a heartfelt post on X that quickly gained over 10 million views. She began with the statement, “Today, after 38 years of marriage, I filed for divorce on biblical grounds."

Angela explained, "I believe marriage is a sacred covenant and I have earnestly pursued reconciliation. But in light of recent discoveries, I do not believe that it honors God or is loving to myself, my children, or Ken to remain in the marriage."

She added, "I move forward with complete confidence that God is always working everything together for the good of those who love Him and who are called according to His purpose."

Just minutes after her post, Ken Paxton responded with his message on X. He acknowledged the toll of political pressure and public scrutiny, writing, “After facing the pressures of countless political attacks and public scrutiny, Angela and I have decided to start a new chapter in our lives.”

He expressed gratitude for their family, saying, “I could not be any more proud or grateful for the incredible family that God has blessed us with, and I remain committed to supporting our amazing children and grandchildren. I ask for your prayers and privacy at this time."

Ken Paxton faced allegations of an affair in 2023

Ken Paxton’s divorce filing comes two years after he faced an impeachment trial in the Texas Senate. Lawmakers accused him of corruption, but the Senate ultimately acquitted him. During the trial, officials also raised allegations of an extramarital affair.

Katherine Cary, Paxton’s former chief of staff, testified that the alleged affair disrupted the workplace. She also stated that Paxton privately admitted to the affair, even though he chose not to testify during the proceedings.

On Thursday, the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) issued a sharp criticism of Paxton. The group, which supports Republican Senate candidates, pointed to his personal controversies as a liability. “What Ken Paxton has put his family through is truly repulsive and disgusting,” NRSC spokesperson Joanna Rodriguez wrote on X. “No one should have to endure what Angela Paxton has, and we pray for her as she chooses to stand up for herself and her family during this difficult time."

Meanwhile, Senate Majority Leader John Thune met with President Donald Trump at the White House on Wednesday, July 9, to discuss upcoming Senate races. Thune told NBC News the next day that they reviewed “a whole range of races around the country.”

A senior Republican strategist later confirmed that Texas was among the states they discussed. When asked whether he had a favorite in the Texas race, Thune responded, “We need an electable candidate that can win not just a primary, but a general, and we believe there’s a path there for Cornyn to win both." John Cornyn first won his Senate seat in 2002.