AG Paxton Deploys Fraud, Waste and Abuse to Target CenterPoint.

Texas AG Ken Paxton Launches Investigation into CenterPoint Energy's Response to Hurricane Beryl, Cites 'Concerning Allegations' of Fraud and Misconduct

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, a man with a long history of legal troubles of his own, has decided to turn his attention to the failings of others, launching an investigation into CenterPoint Energy's disastrous response to Hurricane Beryl, which left millions of Texans without power. Fraud, waste, and a shocking misuse of taxpayer money are the accusations being thrown at the company, and it's about time someone held them accountable.

"My office is all too aware of the concerning allegations regarding CenterPoint and their shameful conduct during Hurricane Beryl, a powerful storm that exposed the company's negligence and left a devastating impact on millions of Texans," Paxton said in a news release. "If wrongdoing is found, we will make sure that justice is served and that those affected receive the compensation they deserve."

CenterPoint, a Gulf and Upper Midwest energy giant, has been at the center of political outrage serving about 7 million customers across these regions, as 2.2 million Houston residents suffered protracted power outages during and after the Category 1 storm. The company's CEO, Jason Wells, faced tough questions at a state Senate hearing last month, where he expressed a remorseful tone but stopped short of taking full responsibility.

"I apologize to our customers and their families for the frustrating and dangerous experience they went through during Hurricane Beryl and its aftermath," Wells stated, failing to mention the company's role in this man-made disaster.

The senator, a tone-deaf company man, rebuffed calls for his resignation, citing "momentum" in the company's efforts to address the issues. Meanwhile, Texans suffered, and Gov. Greg Abbott, in a rare moment of decisiveness, gave CenterPoint an ultimatum: present a plan to minimize future outages by July 31 or face the music.

However, when CenterPoint submitted their half-baked plan, Abbott's office swiftly rejected it, stating, "CenterPoint Energy’s proposal was inadequate, and more must be done and completed faster." Abbott, perhaps unintentionally, echoed the sentiments of millions of frustrated Texans who have had enough of corporate incompetence and governmental negligence.

In a rare moment of unity, Houston's state Sen. Paul Bettencourt, a Republican, joined the chorus of criticism, applauding the investigation and citing the very real concerns of his constituents:

"It's about time that CenterPoint Energy's response to Hurricane Beryl is investigated, especially concerning the allegations of fraud, waste, and improper use of taxpayer funds. It's unacceptable for Texans to be left in the dark, both literally and figuratively, while these corporations line their pockets with our money.""