Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has achieved a significant legal win against former Senate and presidential hopeful Robert Francis “Beto” O’Rourke and his progressive organization, Powered by People. Paxton’s lawsuit accuses O’Rourke and his group of operating a deceptive fundraising scheme aimed at supporting Texas House Democrats who fled the state to break quorum, all while pocketing donations for personal luxuries. “Democrat runaways are likely accepting Beto Bribes to underwrite their jet-setting sideshow in far-flung places and misleadingly raising political funds to pay for personal expenses,” Paxton stated.
On Thursday, a Texas district court granted a temporary restraining order against O’Rourke and Powered by People, halting all unlawful fundraising and expenditures as the lawsuit proceeds. The court determined that the conduct constituted “false, misleading, or deceptive acts” under the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act. This action also violated several state laws, including the Texas Penal Code and Election Code.
The judge emphasized that Texas donors were misled into believing their contributions supported a political cause, only to discover their money was used for hotels, dining, and travel for absentee lawmakers. The restraining order specifically prohibits O’Rourke and his organization from using political funds to pay for out-of-state travel, hotels, or meals for unexcused legislators during a special session. It also bans paying fines levied against absent lawmakers.
Furthermore, the order prevents raising funds for any non-political purposes through ActBlue or similar platforms and offering travel, lodging, or meals to entice legislators to neglect their duties. Removing funds or property from Texas during the lawsuit is also prohibited. Paxton expressed confidence in the court’s decision, stating, “This out-of-state, cowardly cabal is abandoning their constitutional duties. I will not allow failed political has-beens to buy off Texas elected officials. I’ll see you in court, Beto.”
A press release from the Attorney General’s office highlighted the victory against O’Rourke and Powered by People, emphasizing the halting of unlawful fundraising activities. This court decision took place just hours after Paxton filed the initial lawsuit, showcasing the urgency and importance of the matter. “The Beto Bribe buyouts that were bankrolling the runaway Democrats have been officially stopped,” Paxton declared.
Paxton accused O’Rourke and his organization of intentionally misleading donors to finance the personal expenses of runaway Democrats. These actions were disguised as political fundraising, blurring the line between legal political contributions and personal expenditures. Texas law strictly prohibits organizations from engaging in such deceptive acts.
In addition to stopping the “Beto Bribes,” Paxton filed a historic lawsuit against 13 runaway Democrats, seeking to have the Texas Supreme Court declare that they vacated their offices by abandoning the state. This bold move underscores Paxton’s commitment to uphold the law and protect Texans from deceptive practices. He also initiated an investigation into a Soros-funded group believed to have supported the quorum break.
Paxton’s actions aim to enforce Quorum Warrants in Illinois, further pressing the issue of accountability for those who abandon their responsibilities. While O’Rourke and his organization face legal challenges, the focus remains on ensuring that political donations are used appropriately. This case highlights the importance of transparency and integrity in political fundraising.
Conservative news outlets like Fox News and Newsmax have reported on the lawsuit, underscoring the significance of Paxton’s legal triumph. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining ethical standards in political activities. Paxton’s unwavering resolve in pursuing justice is a testament to his dedication to the people of Texas.
The outcome of this lawsuit could have far-reaching implications for political fundraising practices in the state. As the legal proceedings continue, all eyes are on the court to see how it will ultimately rule on the matter. Texans can rest assured that their Attorney General is fighting to protect their interests and uphold the law.
