AG Paxton Calls for Rep. Jeff Leach's Resignation and 8-Day-Out Campaign Finance Reports
Legislative Chairs Emphasize Judicial Independence
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Texas House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee chair Jeff Leach, a Republican, and Criminal Jurisprudence Committee chair Joe Moody, a Democrat, submitted a filing with the Texas Supreme Court, emphasizing judicial independence and the separation of powers. Attorney General Ken Paxton publicly called for Leach’s resignation following Leach’s private communications to Court of Criminal Appeals Judge, Michelle Slaughter, requesting mercy to be shown on the Robert Roberson’s execution. 8-day-out Campaign Finance Reports are now available.
Today’s Insights:
- Moody, Leach Ask Texas Supreme Court to Rule on Legislative Subpoena
- AG Paxton Calls for Rep. Leach’s Resignation Following Private Communication with Judge
- 8-day-out Campaign Finance Reports
Moody and Leach File for Judicial Independence in Texas Supreme Court
Texas House Judiciary & Civil Jurisprudence Committee Chair Jeff Leach, a Republican, and Criminal Jurisprudence Committee Chair Joe Moody, a Democrat, submitted a filing to the Texas Supreme Court highlighting the judiciary's role in maintaining the separation of powers. The brief focuses on whether the committee's subpoena power is enforceable and if the executive branch must comply. Without enforceability, the legislature may lack authority to compel executive testimony, potentially weakening legislative oversight and shifting the balance of power toward the executive branch.
Download Filing Below:
RELATOR’S BRIEF ON THE MERITS.pdf
AG Paxton Calls for Rep. Leach’s Resignation Following Private Communication with Judge
Attorney General Ken Paxton has called for Rep. Jeff Leach’s resignation following Leach’s private communication with Judge Michelle Slaughter of the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals about Robert Roberson's death row case. Leach admitted the communication was an error. Paxton, citing ethical concerns, also announced a criminal referral against Leach. Notably, Slaughter was among three judges defeated in the 2024 Republican primary after Paxton opposed them; the court previously ruled in 2021 that Paxton lacked unilateral authority to prosecute voter fraud.
8-Day-Out Campaign Finance Reports Available on USLege

The 8-day-out campaign finance reports are now available. Visit USLege to access updated campaign finance data and insights.
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