Ken Paxton suggests cuts to federal benefit programs at private fundraiser

Who's involved

• Ken PaxtonRepublican U.S. Senate nominee
• James TalaricoDemocratic opponent

The facts

• Audio from Sept. 24 private fundraiser was fourth leaked clip from the event.^{1 2 3} Stated by 3 sources
• Audio clip was recorded by an attendee who opposes Paxton in his Senate run.^{1 2 3} Stated by 3 sources
• Portions of Paxton's remarks were leaked to New York Times, Politico, and Axios.^{1 2 3} Stated by 3 sources
• Paxton did not specify which programs he would cut or by how much in audio clip.^{1 2 3} Stated by 3 sources
• Paxton cited cracking down on fraud as a major way to reduce the deficit.^{1 2 3} Stated by 3 sources

Who said what

These are statements and claims made by the people involved. They are reported, not verified.

• Ken Paxton Making reasonable cuts to mandatory spending needed; no solution otherwise.^{1 2 3}
• Ken Paxton From Republican presidents to Democrats, we've been spending like crazy.^{1 2 3}
• Ken Paxton We have to solve national debt while keeping promises to program participants.^{1 2 3}
• Ken Paxton I have never said I would take away entitlements from those who deserve them.^{1 2 3}