Texas AG Investigates Beto O’Rourke’s Group Over Funding Claims

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated an investigation into former Representative Beto O’Rourke’s political group regarding claims of potential unlawful activity. This inquiry focuses on O’Rourke’s organization, Powered by People, which has allegedly provided financial support to over 50 Democratic lawmakers who left Texas to avoid participating in a special legislative session aimed at redistricting congressional maps.

The investigation was announced on October 4, 2023, amid concerns that O’Rourke’s political action committee may have violated state bribery laws by funding the absent lawmakers. Paxton stated, “Any Democrat coward breaking the law by taking a Beto Bribe will be held accountable. Texas cannot be bought. I look forward to thoroughly reviewing all of the documents and communications obtained throughout this investigation.” He emphasized that Texans deserve transparency regarding the lawmakers’ actions and funding sources.

O’Rourke’s group reportedly had approximately $3.5 million in cash at the end of June 2023. According to the Texas Tribune, the organization has funded airfare, lodging, and other logistical expenses for the Democratic representatives who have opted to avoid the state capital. This is not the first time Powered by People has been involved in such actions; during a similar incident in 2021, it spent over $500,000 to support Texas Democrats in their efforts to stall new voting laws by leaving the capital.

In response to Paxton’s investigation, O’Rourke criticized the Attorney General on social media, referencing Paxton’s own past bribery scandal, for which he was acquitted in 2023. O’Rourke remarked, “The guy impeached for bribery is going after the folks trying to stop the theft of five Congressional seats.”

During a CNN interview, O’Rourke defended his group’s funding strategies, asserting that the stakes are high. He stated, “If we fail, the consolidation of authoritarian power in America will be nearly unstoppable.” O’Rourke warned that the ongoing redistricting could enable Republicans to gain an additional five seats in the House of Representatives by the 2026 midterm elections, which he believes would pave the way for a potential third term for former President Donald Trump.

As part of the ongoing investigation, Paxton’s office has requested documentation and communications from Powered by People regarding its role in the Democrats’ strategy to break quorum. This inquiry is part of a broader context of political tension in Texas, where redistricting efforts have become a focal point of partisan conflict.