A Latino advocacy group has called on the US Justice Department to investigate Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton following raids conducted by his office at the homes of Democratic activists and leaders. The League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) has accused Paxton of attempting to suppress the Latino vote through intimidation and harassment, potentially violating federal civil rights laws.
No charges have been filed as a result of the raids, which were part of an election integrity probe initiated by Paxton's office in Frio, Atascosa, and Bexar counties. The investigation stemmed from allegations of election fraud and vote harvesting, referred by a district attorney.
Paxton, known for his voter fraud advocacy, has faced criticism for his tactics in the past. He previously filed a lawsuit to overturn the 2020 election results and has targeted various groups and individuals, including transgender youth seeking medical care and a nonprofit aiding migrants.
LULAC and Democratic activists have condemned the recent raids as voter intimidation, with members of the Latino community being specifically targeted. The raids included searches at the homes of Democratic candidates, elderly individuals, and LULAC members, leading to the confiscation of personal belongings and voter registration materials.
The advocacy group highlighted a broader pattern of voter intimidation in minority communities, alleging that Paxton's actions are part of a systematic effort to suppress their political influence in Texas. The raids have sparked outrage and calls for accountability, with affected individuals describing the searches as embarrassing, intimidating, and harassing.
In response to the situation, LULAC has urged the federal government to take immediate action to address what they perceive as a threat to voting rights and democratic participation. The ongoing controversy surrounding Paxton's conduct underscores the importance of safeguarding electoral processes and upholding the rights of all citizens to participate in fair and free elections.
