Day two of the Paxton impeachment trial was full of intrigue, revelations of problematic and illegal behavior by Paxton, and disagreements on procedure and evidence. It was missing one key figure though: Ken Paxton. 

It’s clear by his absence from his own trial that Paxton thinks he’s above the law. More than that, his refusal to participate is disrespectful to the Texans that expect and demand answers and accountability from Texas’ chief law enforcement officer. 

In case you weren’t able to watch, here are some topline highlights from day two:

• It was clear to staff and leadership within the OAG that Paxton’s relationship to Nate Paul was “alarming” and inappropriate, so much so that they worried Paxton was actively being blackmailed.

• Violating the gag order set by the Senate jurors and pulling a page out of Trump’s playbook, Paxton sent out a campaign fundraising email comparing himself to fallen Alamo defender Davy Crockett. In it, he wrote "With your help, I can be back in office by the end of the month."

• Revelations of illegal and troubling behavior by Paxton became so damning that Tony Buzbee accused a key witness of “staging a coup” against Paxton.

• Paxton was nowhere to be found during today’s proceedings. Where was he?

Texas Democratic Party Chair Gilberto Hinojosa issued the following statement:

“No one in Texas politics ignores the rule of law more than our indicted and suspended Attorney General Ken Paxton. It’s clear he doesn’t give a damn about the laws of Texas, and has never been held accountable for anything in his entire life. The only thing Paxton cares about is campaign fundraising and lining the pockets of his Republican elite donors. If Paxton cared about Texas and cared about the rule of law - he would stand trial and testify in court.”