During the impeachment trial of Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, Rusty Hardin, the chief prosecutor, committed a notable error by mistakenly declaring the conclusion of his team’s case.
This mistake arose immediately after Hardin had concluded his questioning of witness Blake Brickman, neglecting to provide an opportunity for cross-examination. Tony Buzbee, the principal defense attorney for Paxton, promptly highlighted this oversight.
“He just rested without a cross exam. I can recall the witness so I am fine with that. We’ll recall this man. We’ll accept the rest,” Buzbee said.
Realizing his error, Hardin responded, “He is absolutely right. I apologize. I think he is entitled to his day in court.”
Later, he further acknowledged his mistake, stating, “Here is the problem. I messed up and shouldn’t have rested until he finished his cross.”
Even though Hardin acknowledged the error, it remained uncorrectable. Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, presiding over the Senate trial, declared that the defense’s witnesses would proceed, effectively signifying that, in the Senate’s view, the prosecution had officially concluded its case.
This trial stems from the Texas House of Representatives’ May decision to impeach Paxton on various charges, including bribery, corruption, and obstruction of justice. These allegations are primarily linked to a real estate developer and Paxton donor who was under FBI investigation.
During the trial’s initial day, Paxton entered a plea of not guilty to all 16 impeachment charges. The prosecution’s procedural mistake against Paxton is undoubtedly an unexpected and favorable turn of events for the beleaguered Attorney General of Texas.
