Key takeaways:

• Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton ordered schools to post the Ten Commandments despite court rulings.
• Senator John Cornyn criticized Paxton for ignoring the separation of church and state.
• Paxton is challenging Cornyn in the 2026 GOP Senate primary.
• Paxton’s personal life drama adds fuel to an already heated debate.
• The Ten Commandments Fight in Texas Politics

Texas is witnessing a fierce clash over the Ten Commandments. Attorney General Ken Paxton wants local schools to display the Ten Commandments on their walls. However, state courts have ruled that such displays break the law. In reaction, Senator John Cornyn slammed his primary rival. This fight has put the spotlight on the separation of church and state in public schools.

How the Ten Commandments Became a Political Flashpoint

Ken Paxton posted on his social media that he would “not back down” from defending the values that built the country. He then directed all Texas schools to hang the Ten Commandments. This directive directly conflicts with past Texas court decisions. In fact, those rulings said posting the Ten Commandments in class violates the state’s constitution.

Senator Cornyn responded swiftly. He reminded Paxton that the Constitution protects religious freedom. Cornyn’s reply read, “Might want to brush up on the Ten Commandments, Ken.” This sharp message shows how deep the division runs.

Why Separation of Church and State Matters

Public schools must follow the principle of separation between church and state. This idea stops the government from favoring any religion. Courts have long held that displaying the Ten Commandments in classrooms crosses that line.

Moreover, opponents argue that forcing a religious text on all students ignores their diverse beliefs. For example, families who follow other faiths or no faith at all may feel excluded. Therefore, schools need to remain neutral on religion.

Supporters of Paxton claim that the Ten Commandments represent basic moral lessons. They say these rules have shaped America’s legal system and ethical code. Yet courts have made it clear that moral lessons can be taught in other ways without posting a religious document.

Personal Drama Fuels the Debate

Adding more heat to the fight, Paxton is challenging Cornyn for his Senate seat in 2026. This primary battle has become personal. Cornyn’s critique of the Ten Commandments order came just days after Paxton’s wife announced plans to divorce him on “biblical grounds.”

Angela Paxton wrote that she tried to save their marriage. Yet, she said it no longer honored God or served her children. Although the divorce details are private, rumors swirl about possible infidelity. In 2023, an investigation found that Paxton used a fake name to hire rideshare cars and meet a mistress. As a result, his personal life is under intense scrutiny.

Amid these scandals, Cornyn’s jab about the Ten Commandments hit harder. Many see it as a way to question Paxton’s moral authority. The dispute is no longer just about law and religion. It now involves personal trust and character.

What This Means for Texas Schools

Local school districts face uncertainty. They must decide whether to comply with Paxton’s instruction or follow court rulings. Some districts worry about legal battles. They may face lawsuits or lose funding if they ignore the attorney general.

On the other hand, some school boards already display other moral codes without issue. They teach the same lessons in history, civics, or ethics classes. These educators argue that students can learn about moral values in many ways.

Parents also have mixed feelings. Some welcome the idea of the Ten Commandments on walls. They believe it encourages good behavior and respect. Others worry it pressures their children to follow a set of religious rules at school.

Legal experts predict that if any district posts the Ten Commandments, opponents will quickly sue. Courts will then decide again whether the displays break the Texas Constitution. This back-and-forth could drag on for years, keeping the debate alive.

Looking Ahead to the 2026 Senate Race

Ken Paxton’s move has national significance. If he defeats Cornyn in the GOP primary, it will signal a shift in Texas politics. Paxton’s hardline stance on religion in public life might appeal to some conservative voters. However, his personal controversies could scare away moderates.

Meanwhile, Cornyn’s response highlights his view of constitutional limits. He wants to show voters he will uphold legal boundaries. By invoking the Ten Commandments, he strikes back at the very idea of mixing religion and public schools.

As the campaign unfolds, both men will likely use this issue to rally their bases. Supporters of church and state separation will back Cornyn’s stand. Those who prefer a stronger role for religion in public life may side with Paxton.

In any case, Texas schools sit in the middle of this political storm. Their teachers and administrators are watching closely. They need clear rules so they can focus on teaching, not legal fights.

Conclusion

The fight over the Ten Commandments in Texas schools has become more than a classroom issue. It now shapes a high-stakes Senate race. Texas courts have already ruled that posting the Ten Commandments in classrooms is illegal. Despite this, Attorney General Paxton insists on enforcing their display. Senator Cornyn’s sharp rebuke shows how divided Texans are over church and state. With the 2026 primary looming, both men will continue to use this battle to win votes.

Frequently asked questions

What did Texas courts say about posting the Ten Commandments?

State courts ruled that displaying the Ten Commandments in public schools breaks the Texas Constitution’s separation of church and state rule.

Why is Senator Cornyn criticizing Ken Paxton’s order?

Cornyn argues Paxton’s order to display the Ten Commandments ignores legal limits and mixes religion with public education.

How could this fight affect Texas schools?

Schools may face lawsuits if they post the Ten Commandments. This could lead to costly legal battles and distract teachers from education.

Will personal scandals impact the Senate race?

Yes. Paxton’s divorce and past infidelity rumors might sway moderate voters. Meanwhile, Cornyn’s response may strengthen his support among voters who value constitutional norms.