Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton faced widespread criticism and online mockery following a Sunday interview on Fox News' “Sunday Morning Futures” with host Maria Bartiromo.

During the segment, Paxton discussed his Senate primary campaign against Democratic Texas lawmaker James Talarico, focusing on questions about his controversial political and personal history.

When asked about his reputation and a Wall Street Journal description labeling him as “scandal-plagued,” Paxton deflected by claiming that similar accusations could be made about former President Donald Trump.

His comment quickly drew attention on social media, where political analysts, commentators, and journalists interpreted his defense as an unusual or self-incriminating comparison.

Paxton’s political career has been marked by multiple controversies, including a high-profile impeachment proceeding in the Texas legislature related to allegations involving improper conduct and alleged favors for a real estate developer.He has also faced personal scrutiny tied to his divorce and accusations of infidelity.Despite these issues, he narrowly survived impeachment and remains an active figure in Texas Republican politics as he seeks a U.S.Senate seat.Following the interview, several public figures reacted online.

Political scientist Norman Ornstein remarked sarcastically that Paxton’s statement was unusually candid, while others, including writer Jim Stewartson and commentator Mehdi Hasan, mocked the comparison to Trump as a political “flex” that backfired.

The segment and ensuing reactions highlighted ongoing scrutiny of Paxton’s candidacy and the political risks surrounding his public defense of his record.