This footage was filmed and produced 5 September 2023.

The impeachment trial against Texas (U.S.) Attorney General Ken Paxton for bribery and breach of public trust began Tuesday in the state legislature, where the close ally of former President Donald Trump (2017-2021) pleaded not guilty.

Paxton, suspended on an interim basis since last May, is charged with bribery, abuse of public trust and unfitness for office, among other charges brought by the Republican-majority state legislature.

"This is a very important event that will be remembered in the history books," said Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick as he opened the session.

During the hearing, which brought together lawmakers and dozens of demonstrators in support of Paxton at the state Capitol, his lawyers called the allegations "offensive" and "completely false.

The trial, which will last several days, will include testimony from witnesses for and against Paxton and will conclude with a vote on whether or not he remains in office.

In most (43) U.S. states, the position of state attorney general is put to a popular vote and the winner is elected for a four-year term.

This footage illustrates Several shots from the Texas State Capitol as well as several people lining up to enter the impeachment trial,