AUSTIN (WBAP/KLIF News) – The shakeup at embattled Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s office continues.
Texas Solicitor General Kyle Hawkins tendered his resignation Tuesday, January 12th and will remain in his position until February 1st.
In a statement, Hawkins didn’t specify why he was leaving but praised Paxton as a “stalwart advocate for Texas.”
Paxton responded by praising Hawkins’ work.
“Kyle Hawkins fought for Texans’ rights every step of the way–including arguing before the U.S. Supreme Court regarding the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act. His dedication to safeguarding rights is very much appreciated,” said Paxton in a statement.
Hawkins departure continues an exodus at the Texas AG’s office that began in September when eight of Paxton’s top deputies accused him of bribery and abuse of office on behalf of his wealthy donor, Nate Paul.
Their accusations are the focus of an FBI investigation into Paxton, who is already facing securities fraud charges to which he has pleaded not guilty. All of Paxton’s accusers have either quit or been fired.
Last month, Hawkins did not join a Texas lawsuit backed by President Donald Trump that called on the Supreme Court to overturn President-elect Joe Biden’s victory in the 2020 election.
The solicitor general is just below the attorney general in rank.
Paxton has appointed Judd Stone to replace Hawkins. Stone joined the Texas Solicitor General’s Office in 2020 and began his legal career as a law clerk to Justice Antonin Scalia on the United States Supreme Court, to then-Chief Judge Edith Jones on the United State Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, and for Justice Daniel Winfree on the Alaska Supreme Court.
He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Texas at Dallas and his law degree from Northwestern University.
Paxton said he’s optimistic about his new solicitor general.
“I look forward to working with Judd Stone in his new role as Texas Solicitor General. His skills, years of experience and expertise are tremendous assets to the Office of the Attorney General. I am positive that he will continue faithfully serving Texas with integrity, honesty, and a strong commitment to the rule of law.”
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