Attorney General Ken Paxton has extended his congratulations to Joseph Mazzara, a former executive staff member of his office, on his new appointment as Acting General Counsel for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security within the Trump Administration. In a press release, Paxton acknowledged Mazzara's legal expertise and commitment to constitutional freedoms, as well as his background as a decorated Marine, stating that these experiences prepare him well for his role in national security. "During his time in my office, Joe was a courageous defender of the rule of law, bringing his sharp legal mind and unwavering dedication to protecting our constitutional freedoms," said Attorney General Paxton in a statement obtained by the Texas Attorney General's office.

Throughout his tenure at the Texas Office of the Attorney General, Mr. Mazzara's roles included serving as Special Counsel to both the Attorney General and the First Assistant Attorney General. As Assistant Solicitor General prior to serving as a special counsel, he litigated on behalf of the State in various high-profile cases across different levels of the judicial system, which, adorned with accolades, speaks to Joe's extensive legal background. He represented Texas in the U.S. Supreme Court, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, and the Texas Supreme Court.

Before joining the Office of the Attorney General in September 2022, Mazzara gained legal experience clerking for several judges, including the Honorable Edith H. Jones, Brantley Starr, and Stephen A. Vaden. His background also includes serving as in-house counsel for President Trump's national re-election campaign in 2020. Mazzara is an alumnus of George Mason University's Antonin Scalia Law School, and he has also served as a member of the United States Marine Corps.

This recent development reflects ongoing collaboration between state-level legal offices and the federal government during Trump’s administration. Mazzara, now focusing on national security matters, is positioned to influence a broader range of policy and governance. His background as a combat veteran and legal professional supports his qualifications for this role, and his military and legal experience provides him with an understanding of the responsibilities associated with the position.