# Ken Paxton Leans on Ted Cruz as Political Ally During Legal Challenges
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has turned to Senator Ted Cruz as a key political operative during a period of legal vulnerability and uncertainty about his political future. Cruz is actively helping Paxton through fundraising efforts and strategic advice, according to reporting from Politico.
Paxton faces serious legal jeopardy. He was indicted on securities fraud charges in 2015 and has endured an ongoing criminal trial that has stretched for years. Beyond the courtroom, Paxton also survived an impeachment effort in the Texas House in 2023 over allegations of abuse of office and improper influence. Though the Texas Senate acquitted him, the legal and political clouds hanging over him have created questions about whether he can remain viable in statewide office.
Cruz's involvement signals the senator's confidence in Paxton's political survival. The two Texas Republicans have long maintained ties, and Cruz's endorsement carries weight in conservative circles across the state. By deploying his fundraising network on Paxton's behalf, Cruz helps Paxton replenish his legal defense fund while also shoring up his political standing among major donors and party insiders.
The relationship also serves Cruz's own political calculus. Paxton controls a powerful office with significant influence over Texas politics and policy. Maintaining a strong relationship with an attorney general could benefit Cruz on issues ranging from voter integrity to border security. A weakened Paxton would diminish Cruz's influence within Texas GOP circles. Supporting Paxton now preserves that political asset.
Paxton has held the attorney general office since 2015, surviving two terms and establishing himself as a loyal ally to former President Donald Trump. That loyalty has become central to his political identity. He joined efforts to overturn the 2020 election results and has positioned himself as a hardliner on immigration and law enforcement matters. These stances have earned him support from the Trump wing of the Republican Party, though his legal troubles have created openings for challengers.
Cruz's decision to actively back Paxton also reflects the Texas senator's own evolution. Once a Trump critic, Cruz has become a reliable ally to the former president. Supporting Paxton, a Trump loyalist facing legal challenges, fits that broader realignment. It also positions Cruz as a kingmaker within Texas Republican politics, a role he has cultivated since his 2016 presidential campaign.
The fundraising assistance matters because legal defense costs drain campaign accounts. Paxton needs resources to pay attorneys and maintain his political operation simultaneously. Cruz's network can unlock donor access that might otherwise be difficult for a candidate under indictment.
The political stakes remain high. Texas Republicans will determine whether Paxton remains electable for statewide office, or whether his legal troubles force him to step aside. Cruz's early investment signals that significant elements of the Texas GOP establishment view Paxton as recoverable. The outcome will shape not only Paxton's future but also the power dynamics within Texas Republican politics heading into 2026.