Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has made his first campaign appearance since being indicted on securities fraud charges, addressing about 700 cheering supporters at a tea party rally.
The Republican was joined at the Thursday evening event in Houston by presidential hopeful Ted Cruz, though they gave separate addresses and didn't share a stage.
Paxton last week pleaded not guilty to two counts of securities fraud over allegations he deceived investors in a tech startup that compensated him for recruiting new shareholders.
The alleged deception happened in 2011, before Paxton became attorney.
He thanked the crowed for its support and prayers amid "all the issues that are going on."
Except for appearing in court and before a recent legislative committee, Paxton has appeared sparsely in public as his case unfolds.
Copyright 2015 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.