Judge Orders Ken Paxton's Divorce Records Sealed

A Texas judge has sealed the divorce records of Attorney General Ken Paxton (R) and State Senator Angela Paxton (R), blocking them from public view as the high-profile couple splits under mysterious circumstances.

Judge Ray Wheless, a Republican serving as the regional administrative judge, ordered the records sealed on July 12, one day after state Senator Paxton’s attorney filed a motion arguing the documents contained no public health or safety concerns.

“The sealing of the records in this action will not have an adverse affect on the public health or safety,” attorney Charla Bradshaw wrote in a motion, adding that the filings “do not involve matters that should be available to the general public.”

The case has drawn widespread attention due to the attorney general’s recent impeachment, allegations of infidelity, and the couple’s deep involvement in Texas politics.

State Senator Paxton filed for divorce last week, citing adultery and referencing “biblical grounds” in a public statement.

“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 shared on X.

Before the seal was issued, The Texas Newsroom obtained documents including the divorce petition, Attorney General Paxton’s denial, and the motion to recuse the original judge, Jill Renfro Willis, whose husband is the Collin County District Attorney and a longtime ally of the attorney general.

Though Judge Wheless sealed the records, he will not remain on the case.

Attorney General Paxton’s attorney Laura Roach told reporters he is expected to assign it to another judge. Judge Wheless and his wife, also a Collin County judge, have donated over $1,800 to the Paxtons since 2014.

State Senator Paxton is seeking a disproportionate share of the couple’s assets, sole access to their McKinney home and her business account, and for Attorney Paxton to accept blame for the divorce.