AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — A spokeswoman says Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is recusing himself from some duties of his office following his indictment on securities fraud charges.
The decision is one of the first examples of how the criminal case against Paxton is impacting his job as the top prosecutor in Texas. He has pleaded not guilty and has said the July indictment would not affect his focus at work.
Paxton spokeswoman Cynthia Meyer said the attorney general’s office is screening the Republican from “active participation” in matters that could pose a conflict. That includes matters involving the State Securities Board and Texas Ethics Commission.
Paxton took office in January. Meyer did not indicate how many times Paxton has recused himself so far.
The recusals were first reported by Texas Lawyer.