Paxton Downplays Leaked Recordings Critical of Trump
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton dismissed leaked recordings from a September fundraiser that appeared to show him criticizing President Trump. In a Fox News interview, Paxton said the clips did not reflect his meaning and pointed to his record of supporting Trump. The leaks have raised questions about his Senate campaign and his relationship with the president.
Paxton, Texas’s attorney general and a Republican Senate candidate, addressed five leaked recordings from a Sept. 24 private fundraiser during a Fox News interview. He dismissed their importance, cited his long support for Trump, and accused rival James Talarico of avoiding substantive issues.
Earlier excerpts reportedly showed Paxton calling Trump a campaign burden, criticizing Iran-war costs, saying Washington directed his race, and telling federal-benefit recipients to prepare for reductions. Talarico, a Texas native, is nearly even with Paxton before November’s midterms.
The leaked recordings may shape how Texas voters view Paxton’s Senate bid, especially Republicans weighing loyalty to Trump against private remarks. If the race remains close, the controversy could affect turnout, donor confidence, and media coverage in the final weeks. It may also intensify scrutiny of candidates’ private fundraising comments and how quickly such clips influence public trust.