A federal appeals court found Paxton’s investigation of Media Matters was likely a “campaign of retaliation”
After Media Matters reported that big brands’ ads were appearing next to pro-Nazi posts on X, Paxton launched a sweeping investigation of the group. A unanimous federal appeals court upheld an order blocking it, finding Media Matters was likely the “target of a government campaign of retaliation.”
What happened
Paxton issued a sweeping civil investigative demand to Media Matters after it reported on ads appearing next to pro-Nazi posts on X. 01
On May 30, 2025, a unanimous panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit upheld an injunction against the probe, finding the group was likely to win its First Amendment retaliation claim and was the “target of a government campaign of retaliation.” 01 02
Why it matters
A federal appeals court found the state’s attorney general likely used his investigative power to punish a news organization for its reporting. 01
Timeline
- Federal appeals court finds Paxton’s Media Matters probe likely retaliation
What the sources show
The retaliation finding is a federal appeals court ruling on a preliminary injunction. 01
Paxton’s response
Paxton has said his office was investigating possible fraud. 02
Sources
- 01DC Circuit shuts down Texas probe over Media Matters roast of Elon MuskCourthouse News Service · May 30, 2025
- 02Media Matters for America v. Paxton, No. 24-7059 (D.C. Cir. 2025)U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit (via Justia) · May 30, 2025
Updates and corrections
- Case file published.