[marktwain]

The suggestion would be to amend the constitution if we want the AG to have that power, but I’m not sure that’s a great idea. So my suggestion is you may need to accept the fact that separation of powers and reliance on elected officials means some crimes go unpunished and you don’t always get what you want. It’s messy, but the alternative is worse.

As I recall, the process to amend the Texas Constitution is not as difficult as it is in many states.

Separation of powers has worked fairly well, in general. The balancing act to prevent accumulation of overwhelming power by one entity is a work in progress.

Texas has thrived with its system, rather unique in the USA.

Thank you for your erudite post and response.

[The Pack Knight]

As I recall, the process to amend the Texas Constitution is not as difficult as it is in many states.

Two-thirds majority vote by each house of the Legislature, then approval by the voters in an election (which typically occurs in an off year with low turnout).

Unlikely to see two-thirds of the current House--which impeached Paxton last year--approve an amendment expanding the AG's powers, but that may change depending on the result of the primary runoffs.

[The Pack Knight]

Forgot to mention: Yesterday’s GOP primary ballot contained a (non-binding) proposition calling for just such an amendment. It garnered 89% of the vote. So there’s certainly an appetite for it.