GOP Attorney General Hopefuls Clash Over Crime and Dallas County DA

Texas Republican candidates vying to replace Ken Paxton as Attorney General have intensified their attacks on Democratic prosecutors, particularly Dallas County District Attorney John Creuzot, accusing them of contributing to rising crime rates. The candidates sparred over approaches to law enforcement and the role of the Attorney General during a debate held February 17, 2026, as early voting in the March 3 primary commenced.

Candidates Target Creuzot

U.S. Rep. Chip Roy, state Sen. Joan Huffman, state Sen. Mayes Middleton, and former U.S. Department of Justice official Aaron Reitz all criticized local prosecutors in major Texas cities, alleging they have failed to adequately enforce state law. Reitz was the most vocal, labeling Creuzot as “one of the worst in the state, if not the nation,” and linking him to a network of liberal district attorneys funded by wealthy donors.

Creuzot Defends Record

Dallas County District Attorney John Creuzot responded to the criticism, asserting that voters in Dallas County have twice elected him countywide and are currently considering him for a third term. He highlighted his collaborative efforts with both Democrats and Republicans in the state legislature, pointing to over 50 bills he helped draft or sponsor that were signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott. Creuzot also stated that crime in Dallas County has decreased for five consecutive years.

Differing Visions for Attorney General

The candidates presented contrasting visions for the Attorney General’s office. Roy emphasized the require to prevent repeat offenders from being released, citing statistics from Houston’s Crime Stoppers regarding individuals murdered by previously released felons. Middleton argued that prosecutors who refuse to prosecute certain offenses should be removed from office, and advocated for expanding the Attorney General’s authority. Huffman, drawing on her experience as a former prosecutor and judge, cautioned that removing prosecutors requires a careful constitutional and statutory process.

Internal Disputes Emerge

The debate also revealed internal divisions among the Republican candidates. Reitz questioned Roy’s effectiveness, claiming Paxton had previously fired him. Roy disputed this claim, countering that Reitz had secured a position at the Department of Justice only to leave shortly after. Middleton criticized Roy for opposing a federal bill that would have criminalized gender-affirming care for minors, arguing it would have ceded authority to the federal government.

Candidate Platforms

• Chip Roy: Focused on prosecuting fraud, targeting radical Islamic organizations, and working with the current administration. He touted an endorsement from Senator Ted Cruz.
• Joan Huffman: Emphasized her extensive legal experience, including over 100 jury trials and her legislative accomplishments.
• Mayes Middleton: Highlighted his conservative legislative record and the threats he has received from liberal activists as evidence of his commitment to conservative values.
• Aaron Reitz: Positioned himself as a battle-tested conservative with Paxton’s endorsement, promising to fight for “conservative Republican Christian Texas and American values.”

Democratic Contenders

The Democratic candidates for Attorney General include Tony Box, a former FBI agent, former Galveston Mayor Joe Jaworski, and state Sen. Nathan Johnson of Dallas.

2026 Texas Attorney General Election Details

The 2026 Texas Attorney General election is scheduled to take place on November 3, 2026, to elect the Attorney General of Texas. The current Attorney General, Ken Paxton, is running for U.S. Senate. Source