Judge Megan Fahey of Tarrant County described the fundraising practices as unlawful, stating they violate state law and cause irreparable harm to contributors who unknowingly finance personal expenses. The order signifies the escalating political tensions in Texas around electoral matters, especially during critical periods of redistricting.

In his reaction, O’Rourke accused Paxton of attempting to suppress efforts advocating for voting rights and free elections, claiming the legal action is a tactic to weaken opposition to Republican leadership in Texas. The case reflects broader national debates regarding political fundraising and the impact of state laws on campaign strategies.

“Cry more, lib,” Paxton said in response. “You lost in court because you’re breaking the law and deceiving Texans. We absolutely will make an example out of law breakers.”

Along with the Powered by People case, Paxton also launched an investigation into the Texas Majority PAC, which has also been accused of being a major funder of the Democrats who left the state.

O’Rourke filed his own lawsuit against Paxton in El Paso district court Friday, according to The Texas Tribune. O’Rourke accused Paxton of carrying out a “fishing expedition” and asked a judge to block the investigation into his nonprofit’s practices.

Paxton celebrated the decision with a post on X.

“BREAKING: I just defeated Beto O’Rourke in court. We secured a major victory stopping runaway Democrats from taking ‘Beto Bribes’ and preventing deceptive fundraising. They told me to “come and take it,” so I did,” the Texas attorney general wrote.