Republican candidates for Texas Attorney General raise millions

AUSTIN, Texas (Legal Newsline) – Taking into account their political backgrounds and campaign platforms, one could argue money might be the only thing separating the three Republican challengers currently vying to become Texas’ next attorney general.

Earlier this week, candidates seeking state offices reported their campaign contributions harvested over the past six months. And with the March 4 primary elections just around the corner, the three Republicans seeking to become Texas’ top lawyer will have millions of dollars at their disposal.

According to the Texas Ethics Commission, the top earner was state Rep. Dan Branch, an attorney from Dallas, who raked in more than $1.9 million in contributions over the past six months.

In total, Branch has nearly $5 million in his war chest.

If elected, Branch has promised to fight federal overreach and clear Texas courts of junk lawsuits.

The runner up for most contributions collected is Railroad Commissioner Barry Smitherman, amassing $1,755,057.93. Additionally, Smitherman has more than $2 million cash on hand.

He is also running on a platform of stopping federal overreach and says he’ll work to secure the Texas border.

State Sen. Ken Paxton, a McKinney attorney, finishes in third place, soaking up a little more than $1 million in contributions during the six-month span. However, the senator’s war chest boosts a sum of $2,294,850.15, according to the TEC.

Like his rivals, Paxton’s platform consists of ensuring state sovereignty and border security.

He also promises to fight the Affordable Care Act if elected.

From Legal Newsline: Reach David Yates at elections@legalnewsline.com.