DALLAS, Texas – Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton on Monday issued a legal opinion criticizing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in public and private institutions, drawing sharp political lines in his Republican primary race against U.S. Senator John Cornyn.
Paxton released the opinion on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, stating that certain hiring practices, training programs, and scholarship efforts that consider race, sex, or other protected characteristics violate state and federal law. He directed state agencies, public universities, and other public entities to review their policies and end programs he described as unlawful.
Paxton linked Cornyn to the DEI initiatives and said the senator did not oppose federal programs supporting such policies. He framed the opinion as reflecting his view that government and businesses should treat all applicants and employees without regard to race.
Cornyn responded, accusing Paxton of using the attorney general’s office for political purposes. He said the opinion misrepresents federal law and could mislead Texas employers, universities, and agencies. Cornyn said he supports equal opportunity and compliance with federal civil rights laws while rejecting unlawful discrimination.
Universities and business groups in Texas said they are reviewing policies with legal counsel to ensure compliance with both state guidance and federal civil rights requirements. Civil rights organizations said they are assessing the potential impact on college access, workplace diversity, and government contracting.
Texas voters will select the Republican nominee later this year, determining which candidate will advance to the general election for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Cornyn. Paxton remains in office as attorney general, and Cornyn continues to serve in the Senate while campaigning. Both offices said official duties will continue during the primary contest.