Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton (R) has made headlines once again, this time for taking credit for a recent move by the Trump administration. On Wednesday, Paxton’s office announced that they had successfully blocked a Biden-era rule that would have directed states to reduce carbon pollution from their highways. This is a significant victory for Paxton and his team, as the Trump administration had previously declined to defend this rule.
The rule in question, which was set to take effect in July, aimed to reduce carbon emissions from transportation, which is one of the leading contributors to climate change. It would have required states to set goals for reducing carbon pollution from their highways and develop plans to achieve those goals. This move was part of President Biden’s efforts to combat climate change and transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
However, Paxton’s office argued that the rule was an overreach of federal authority and would have placed an unfair burden on states. They also claimed that the rule would have resulted in higher costs for drivers and hindered economic growth. The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals agreed with Paxton’s argument and granted the Trump administration’s request to block the rule.
This victory is being hailed as a significant win for the Trump administration and a major setback for the Biden administration’s climate agenda. It also solidifies Paxton’s reputation as a staunch defender of states’ rights and a champion for the oil and gas industry, which plays a significant role in the Texas economy.
In a statement, Paxton said, “This is a huge win for Texas and a clear message to the Biden administration that they cannot impose their radical climate policies on our state. We will continue to fight against any federal overreach that threatens our economy and our way of life.”
Paxton’s efforts to block the rule have been met with praise from fellow Republicans, including Texas Governor Greg Abbott. Abbott tweeted, “Thank you, Attorney General Paxton, for standing up for Texas and protecting us from the Biden administration’s harmful policies.”
However, not everyone is celebrating this move. Environmental groups and advocates for clean energy have criticized Paxton’s actions, saying that it puts the health of Texans and the environment at risk. They argue that reducing carbon pollution is crucial for addressing the climate crisis and protecting vulnerable communities from its effects.
In response to these criticisms, Paxton’s office stated that they are not opposed to reducing carbon emissions but believe that it should be done through state-led initiatives rather than federal mandates. They also pointed out that Texas is a leader in renewable energy and has taken significant steps to reduce its carbon footprint.
This victory for Paxton comes at a time when he is facing multiple legal battles and controversies, including an ongoing FBI investigation and a lawsuit from his own staff accusing him of bribery and abuse of office. This win for his office is a much-needed boost for Paxton, who has been under intense scrutiny in recent months.
While the legal battle over the highway rule may not be over, Paxton and his team are celebrating this victory as a win for the state of Texas and a blow to the Biden administration’s climate agenda. This move sends a clear message that Texas will not stand for federal overreach and will continue to fight for its rights and interests.
