Paxton impeachment lawyer endorses Democrat James Talarico in Texas Senate race shakeup

A major political twist is unfolding in the Texas Senate race, where a lawyer who once defended Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton during his impeachment trial is now endorsing Democratic candidate James Talarico instead of his former client.

Houston attorney Dan Cogdell, who served on Paxton’s defense team during his 2023 impeachment proceedings, has publicly thrown his support behind Talarico in one of the most closely watched U.S. Senate contests.

Endorsement highlights rare split from former client

Cogdell’s endorsement of Talarico marks a notable break from his long professional relationship with Paxton, whom he defended for nearly a decade in corruption and securities fraud-related cases.

While Cogdell said he does not dislike Paxton personally and agreed with the Senate’s decision to acquit him, he criticized the attorney general’s political direction, saying Paxton is too closely aligned with President Donald Trump.

“Obligation ended at the courthouse”

In comments to The Associated Press, Cogdell said his loyalty to Paxton ended after the legal proceedings concluded.

“I worked my ass off for the man for nine years,” Cogdell said. “But that’s a different inquiry. My obligation to Ken ended at the courthouse steps and my obligation as a citizen is to do what I think is the right thing.”

He also argued that Texas needs stronger leadership on issues such as education and healthcare, saying governance should not be reduced to “rubber stamping” Trump-aligned policies in Washington.

Political backlash and campaign responses

Paxton’s campaign dismissed the endorsement, noting that Cogdell is a registered Democrat, while his lead impeachment defense attorney Tony Buzbee reiterated his support for Paxton.

Cogdell, however, described himself as a moderate Democrat who has also donated to Republican candidates in the past, underscoring the cross-party nature of his political stance.

High-stakes Senate race draws national attention

The Texas Senate race has become a key battleground as Democrats attempt to gain ground in the U.S. Senate.

Talarico’s campaign has increasingly focused on Paxton’s legal controversies as part of its messaging strategy, while Paxton continues to benefit from strong support within the Republican base following his victory over Sen. John Cornyn in the GOP primary runoff.

Paxton’s win was boosted by a late endorsement from President Donald Trump, further cementing his alignment with the party’s national leadership.

A race shaped by loyalty, politics, and polarization

The endorsement underscores the growing divisions within Texas politics, where legal history, party loyalty, and alignment with national figures are increasingly shaping electoral dynamics.

As the Senate race heats up, both campaigns are expected to double down on their contrasting narratives: reform and accountability versus continuity and party alignment.