(TEXAS) – This morning, the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals denied a request from Attorney General Ken Paxton to reverse an earlier ruling that stated the Attorney General does not have the power to “initiate criminal proceedings — even in cases involving alleged violations of the election code.”

Texas House Democratic Caucus Chair Chris Turner issued the following statement in response:

“This morning, the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals affirmed its original ruling that denied Attorney General Ken Paxton unilateral power to disregard the Texas Constitution by overstepping local authorities and prosecuting Texans.

“This court ruling upholds the integrity of our state’s judicial system. With this ruling, Ken Paxton cannot target Texans to further his political games. Instead, duly-elected district and county attorneys will remain in charge of prosecutions in their districts without partisan meddling from the attorney general.

“Most importantly, this means Paxton cannot go after women for seeking life-saving, reproductive health care or undermine our democracy by interfering in fair elections. This ruling is a win for law and order, and for the people of Texas.”

The Texas House Democratic Caucus, which is composed of all Democrats in the Texas House, serves as the group’s membership services and logistical arm, and works to support House Democrats with communications, policy, and legal resources. Chaired by Rep. Chris Turner (D – Grand Prairie), the Caucus is focused on fighting for real solutions for all Texans.

For questions regarding the information in this release, please contact press@texashousedems.com.