Bulwark Takes: Ken Paxton’s Divorce Drama Gets “Biblically” Messy
Release Date: July 11, 2025
In this episode of Bulwark Takes, hosts Sam Stein and Will Sommer delve into the tumultuous divorce proceedings of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, exploring the far-reaching political and personal implications of this high-profile split. The discussion is rich with insights into Paxton's controversial career, the reaction from the Republican establishment, and the potential impact on the upcoming Senate primaries in Texas.
1. Ken Paxton’s Divorce Announcement
The episode kicks off with the surprising news that Ken Paxton, a prominent and often contentious figure in Texas politics, has been served with divorce papers by his wife, Angela Paxton, who is herself a state senator.
Sam Stein highlights the rarity of such an event:
“...the Attorney General of one of the more populous states in the country gets, you know, I don't know, served with a divorce filing.” [00:29]
This announcement not only personalizes Paxton’s already controversial public persona but also introduces a new layer of complexity to his political career.
2. National Republican Senatorial Committee’s (NRSC) Reaction
The NRSC issued a statement condemning the situation, which Sam Stein finds unexpected given their usual support dynamics.
Sam Stein summarizes the NRSC’s stance:
“The NRSC National Republican Senatorial Committee says what Ken Paxton has put his family through is truly repulsive and disgusting...,” [00:58]
This outburst from the NRSC appears to signal internal conflicts, especially as Paxton is challenging incumbent Senator John Cornyn.
3. Ken Paxton’s Controversial Background
Will Sommer provides a detailed account of Paxton’s checkered history, emphasizing his repeated entanglements in scandals and legal issues.
Will Sommer recounts a notable incident:
“There was surveillance video from a Collin County Courthouse in 2012 that showed Paxton taking a Mont Blanc pen worth $1,000...and snatched it. It was a thousand. He just took the pen and he got caught.” [03:57]
This anecdote underscores Paxton's reputation for unethical behavior, which has repeatedly put him under scrutiny.
4. Political Implications for the Texas Senate Race
The revelation of Paxton’s divorce comes at a critical juncture as he vies for a Senate seat against John Cornyn. Both hosts discuss the strategic implications of this development.
Will Sommer analyzes the NRSC’s position:
“The NRC's obviously taken a stand here. They want Cornyn to win the primary. He's losing badly in all these primary polls, so they're putting themselves into corner.” [01:25]
This maneuver indicates the NRSC’s attempt to salvage Cornyn’s campaign amidst declining support.
5. Online and Public Reactions
The hosts examine the backlash Angela Paxton has received online following her divorce announcement, particularly criticism from the Republican base.
Will Sommer observes:
“If you look at the responses to her tweet about it, they're like, there are no biblical grounds for divorce. Marriage is indissoluble...,” [05:09]
This hostile reaction highlights the polarized nature of contemporary politics, where personal matters become battlegrounds for ideological conflicts.
6. Potential Democratic Challenges
Looking ahead, Sam Stein and Will Sommer discuss the potential for Democratic challengers to capitalize on the instability within the Texas Republican primary.
Will Sommer mentions emerging Democratic figures:
“Our colleague Lauren Egan was reporting that there's newfound optimism that they could flip a couple Republicans... James Talarika, who is like this young Texas rep... is considering a Senate bid.” [07:05]
He notes Talarika’s rising prominence and effective communication strategies as possible assets for the Democrats in a traditionally Republican stronghold.
7. Conclusion and Additional Resources
Wrapping up, the hosts recommend further resources for listeners interested in the full scope of Ken Paxton’s scandals and political maneuvers.
Will Sommer suggests:
“Our friends over at Crooked, Aaron Ryan and Alyssa Master Monaco... they did one a little while ago on Paxton... it’s worth a watch if you haven’t seen already.” [08:45]
He emphasizes the depth of coverage available for those seeking to understand the intricacies of Paxton’s influence and the ongoing political drama.
This episode of Bulwark Takes offers a comprehensive analysis of Ken Paxton’s personal and political turmoil, shedding light on how his divorce could reshape the political landscape in Texas. Through engaging dialogue and insightful commentary, Sam Stein and Will Sommer provide listeners with a nuanced understanding of the interplay between personal scandals and political strategy.