Ken Paxton’s Impeachment Lawyer Endorses His Senate Rival, James Talarico

Ken Paxton’s impeachment defense lawyer Dan Cogdell endorses Democrat James Talarico.

Dan Cogdell, a Houston-based attorney who represented Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton throughout his 2023 impeachment trial and in a longstanding securities fraud case, has endorsed Democrat James Talarico in the U.S. Senate race. Cogdell’s endorsement, announced shortly after Paxton’s recent primary runoff victory, signals a notable political shift given his close legal association with Paxton.

Cogdell told the Associated Press, "I worked my ass off for the man for nine years. 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."

While Cogdell typically donates to both parties and identifies as a Democrat, his endorsement of Talarico underscores his criticism of Paxton's prioritization of former President Donald Trump. He emphasized the need for lawmakers to address broader issues like education and healthcare in Washington.

Paxton recently defeated incumbent Senator John Cornyn in the Republican primary runoff, buoyed by Trump's late endorsement. Talarico’s campaign views Cogdell’s support as a key advantage in this competitive race where Democrats aim to flip a Texas Senate seat.

James Talarico responded, "If you voted for John Cornyn, you have a place in this campaign. If you're a Republican tired of the corruption you're seeing in government, you have a place in this campaign. Even if you're Ken Paxton's impeachment lawyer...."

This endorsement adds a new layer to the race, intertwining legal controversies with political strategy and spotlighting shifting allegiances within Texas's legal and political communities.