Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has launched an official investigation into Beto O’Rourke’s political organization Powered by People, alleging the group may have played a central financial role in the Texas House Democrats’ ongoing quorum break.
The probe stems from what Paxton's office describes as “public reports” suggesting Powered by People could be a major funder behind the dramatic walkout that saw over 50 Democratic state representatives leave Texas in protest of a controversial redistricting bill.
“These jet-setting runaways have already lost public trust by abandoning our state,” Paxton said in a press release Wednesday. “Texans deserve to know if they received illegal bribes to do it.”
Background on the Quorum Break
Last week, Democratic members of the Texas House departed en masse to block a quorum, halting legislative business. Their departure was aimed at stalling a Republican-backed redistricting proposal, which Democrats argue unfairly dilutes minority voting power and violates the state and federal constitutions.
Republicans, however, claim the walkout is a political stunt designed to undermine the legislative process. Speaker of the House Dustin Burrows (R-Lubbock) has ordered all absent Democrats to return by Friday morning or face removal from their positions in the chamber.
Governor Greg Abbott has added fuel to the controversy by petitioning the Texas Supreme Court to declare that Representative Gene Wu (D-Houston), who leads the House Democratic Caucus, has “forfeited” his office due to his participation in the exodus.
Allegations Against Powered by People
According to the Office of the Attorney General (OAG), Powered by People—a grassroots mobilization group founded by former Congressman and gubernatorial candidate Beto O’Rourke—may have violated state bribery laws by allegedly providing financial or logistical support that encouraged lawmakers to flee.
In a “Request to Examine” issued by Paxton’s office, investigators are demanding access to internal communications and documents from Powered by People that could indicate whether the group coordinated or incentivized the quorum break. The OAG cites potential violations including:
Bribery of public officials
Improper campaign or officeholder contributions
Coercion of a public servant
Abuse of office
“Any Democrat coward breaking the law by taking a Beto Bribe will be held accountable,” Paxton declared. “Texas cannot be bought.”
Political Fallout
The investigation is already generating strong reactions across the political spectrum. Supporters of the Democratic lawmakers argue the walkout was a legal form of protest, historically used by both parties to block legislation they view as harmful or unconstitutional. Critics of the Democrats say the move is a dereliction of duty and an affront to democratic norms.
As for O’Rourke’s organization, it has not yet publicly responded to the investigation. However, it has previously stated its mission is to expand voter access and support Democratic candidates across Texas.
Legal analysts note that while political organizations often provide support for lawmakers during high-profile protests, any evidence of quid pro quo or attempts to influence official actions with money or resources could raise serious legal questions.
What’s Next?
The investigation’s scope remains broad, with Paxton promising a “thorough review” of all materials obtained. Democratic lawmakers who participated in the walkout could also face individual legal scrutiny, depending on what evidence is uncovered.
