The Paxton impeachment is over, and the Texas attorney general is back on the job.

We kept hearing 14-16 during the vote.  The 14 were 12 Democrats and 2 Republicans who voted to convict him, and failed.  The 16 were the Republicans.  It took 21 to convict.

My guess is that once the GOP senators realized that the Democrats would vote together, they would be emboldened.  After all, what Republicans senator wanted to go down in history as Number 9 or the 21st vote to make the conviction possible?

Some of the charges were serious, but the House did rush the whole thing.  So what happens next?

First, A.G. Paxton could settle scores and divide the GOP before 2024.  I can understand his anger, but the governor needs those majorities in Austin to be effective in governing.

Second, he could go after the Biden administration.  I'm glad he is leaning in that direction.  At least, that's what was reported yesterday. 

Here is the story:

"Finally, I can promise the Biden administration the following: buckle up because your lawless policies will not go unchallenged," the statement read. "We will not allow you to shred the constitution and infringe on the rights of Texans. You will be held accountable."

I like that tone, and let's keep it up.

At the moment, Texas is in a legal dispute with the Biden administration over its border river barriers.  I'm sure that other opportunities will come up, too, such as the administration's threats to keep migrants in Texas.

I'm glad that A.G. Paxton survived, but it's time to heal, not get even.

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Image: Twitter screen shot.