AUSTIN, Texas (AP) – Three years ago, criminal charges against Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton appeared to put his political future in peril.
But the Republican enters November’s midterm elections favored to win a second a term while remaining under indictment. Paxton has pleaded not guilty to charges of securities fraud over allegations that he duped wealthy investors in a high-tech startup.
He’s not the only incumbent this year seeking re-election while under indictment. Two Republican congressmen, Reps. Duncan Hunter of California and Chris Collins of New York, are also seeking re-election after being indicted on separate federal charges in August.
Paxton’s case has been at a standstill for nearly a year. His Democratic challenger, Justin Nelson, says the delays have made voters forget that Texas’ top law enforcement officer still faces a trial.
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