Texas State Representative Bryan Slaton (R) resigned just before a vote was held to expel him from the chamber, following allegations of inappropriate sexual conduct with a teenager who he allegedly provided alcohol to and sexually assaulted. Slaton, who was one of the most vocal anti-grooming members of the Texas House of Representatives, failed to apologize or accept responsibility in his resignation letter, according to state Rep. Steve Toth (R).
Investigation Leads to Resignation
An internal complaint filed last month with the Texas legislature’s House General Investigating Committee revealed that Slaton had invited a 19-year-old aide to his Austin condo, where he allegedly plied her with alcohol. In Texas, providing alcohol to a minor is a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine and up to a year in jail. Slaton initially called the complaint “outrageous” but felt pressure to resign after the committee released a 16-page report detailing the accusations against him.
Slaton’s Anti-LGBT Stance
Slaton was a vocal opponent of LGBTQ+ rights in the Texas legislature, accusing drag queens of “grooming” young people and supporting a law banning minors from drag shows. He also introduced legislation that would give tax cuts to heterosexual couples with numerous children and proposed punishing abortions with the death penalty. In 2022, Slaton called for a ban on drag performances in the presence of minors, drawing ire from the LGBT community.
Aftermath of Slaton’s Resignation
Following Slaton’s resignation, the Republican Party of Texas Chair Matt Rinaldi said that the investigation signaled a “new era of accountability” in the House. Slaton remains an officer of the state until Gov. Greg Abbott calls a special election to fill the vacancy, which cannot occur before the legislative session ends this month. With Slaton’s resignation, the LGBT community continues to monitor and speak up against politicians who target their rights and freedoms.