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XFunds Legal Defense for Texas GOP Chair in Trans Bathroom Photo Case, Seeks Full Fifth Circuit Review

The platform frames the dispute as a First Amendment test, seeking rehearing after a panel allowed the criminal probe to continue.

Overview

  • X’s Global Government Affairs said on Dec. 29 it will pay Michelle Evans’ legal bills and help petition the Fifth Circuit for en banc review.
  • Evans, the Williamson County GOP chair, reposted a 2023 photo taken by someone else of a transgender woman in a Capitol women’s restroom during debate over youth gender-care legislation.
  • A district judge and a 2-1 appellate panel on Dec. 9 denied her bid to halt the investigation, with the court noting it is unclear whether she will face charges.
  • Authorities investigated under Texas’ invasive visual recording statute; Department of Public Safety officers questioned Evans and obtained her phone, according to her complaint.
  • Travis County District Attorney Jose Garza’s office criticized X’s stance in defending Evans, as the company points to its broader First Amendment litigation while backing a rehearing.