Paxton Expands Legal Action Against O'Rourke-Backed Group

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton (R) has obtained a modified temporary restraining order (TRO) against Powered by People, a political organization affiliated with former U.S. Representative Beto O’Rourke (D), blocking it and its partners from transferring funds or property out of the state.

The order, issued by a Texas court this week, expands an initial TRO secured last week, and now includes financial institutions and fundraising platforms such as ActBlue. Paxton alleges that the group facilitated financial support for Texas House Democrats who left the state to prevent a quorum during the recent special legislative session on redistricting.

“In Texas, lawless actions have consequences, and Beto’s finding that out the hard way,” Paxton said in a statement.

He accused O’Rourke and his organization of operating “an unlawful financial influence scheme” to support what he described as a “cabal” of Democrats who left the state to delay legislative proceedings.

Paxton also claimed victory in blocking an effort to transfer the legal case to El Paso, O’Rourke’s hometown, which he called an attempt at “forum shopping.”

The restraining order prohibits Powered by People and affiliated entities from sending funds outside of Texas allegedly related to the quorum break.

O’Rourke has not publicly responded to the latest court action. Powered by People was originally launched to support voter registration and Democratic campaigns in Texas. During the recent political standoff over redistricting, the group reportedly helped support lawmakers who traveled out of state to deny the Legislature a voting quorum.

The restraining order remains temporary, pending further court proceedings. The Attorney General’s office has signaled that it will continue pursuing legal action.