Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is using his office to launch undercover investigations into so-called “leftist terror cells.” But there’s no public evidence these groups even exist.

In a press release on October 8, Paxton cited recent acts of violence, including a deadly shooting at a Dallas immigration field office and the killing of political commentator Charlie Kirk, as justification for this sweeping operation. Yet in each case, authorities have either not identified a political motive or confirmed that the attacker acted alone. One shooter was a registered independent, and his own family said they didn’t believe he was political.

Despite this, Paxton is framing these incidents as part of a coordinated network, without offering proof. Experts in terrorism and political violence have warned that labeling isolated acts as part of an organized “leftist” threat is not only misleading, it is dangerous. It risks turning law enforcement into a tool for political targeting.

A 30-year study by the Center for Strategic and International Studies shows that right-wing and jihadist violence have historically been far more lethal than attacks linked to the left. Even during a recent uptick in left-wing incidents, researchers found those attacks were mostly non-lethal. So why is Paxton focusing only on one side?

These investigations carry serious risks. They could justify surveillance of peaceful activists, misdirect state resources, and create a chilling effect on free expression. Texans should not fear being watched or labeled a threat simply because of their beliefs.

No one is arguing against investigating political violence. But it must be based on evidence, not ideology. Paxton’s approach crosses that line.

We call on Attorney General Ken Paxton to disclose the basis for these investigations, end any probe lacking clear evidence of organized criminal activity, and apply the law fairly, no matter the politics. Texas deserves justice based on facts, not fear.

[Photo Credit: Eddie Gaspar/The Texas Tribune]