Paxton Files Lawsuit Against Man Allegedly Trying to Take Over Loving County

MENTONE, TX — Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against Malcolm Tanner, an Indiana resident accused of leading an effort to “take over” Loving County, one of the least populated but wealthiest counties in Texas.

Paxton announced Monday on The Walton & Johnson Show that his office is pursuing legal action against Tanner, who he said is using deceptive tactics to lure outsiders to Loving County under the promise of free housing and a $5,000 monthly stipend. Tanner leads a group called the “Melanated People of Power.”

“Indiana resident Malcolm Tanner has no right to try and take over Loving County with illegal schemes that endanger real Texans,” Paxton said in a statement. He described Tanner’s efforts as a “fraudulent plot” to influence elections and personally profit.

The attorney general’s office is also seeking a temporary restraining order against Tanner for alleged violations of Texas public health and safety codes.

According to state investigators, Tanner has been recruiting individuals from across the U.S. — including Georgia, Mississippi, Oklahoma and South Carolina — to relocate to Mentone, the only town in Loving County, with offers of free homes and stipends. Public records show Tanner purchased two five-acre parcels of land in the area earlier this year.

In a July TikTok video, Tanner said, “I have taken the entire county over, out here in Loving County, Texas. When these elections hit in 2026, we’re going to wipe the board. Everybody that I selected will be elected.”

Tanner refers to himself online as a doctor, real estate investor and future presidential candidate, but there is no public evidence supporting those claims. He has previously been involved in legal disputes in the Midwest, according to reports.

Despite its population of roughly 70 residents, Loving County generates substantial oil and gas revenue, estimated at $1 million per person annually, making it one of the richest counties per capita in the nation.

The lawsuit follows calls from Texas lawmakers, including Sen. Kevin Sparks (R-Midland) and Rep. Brooks Landgraf (R-Odessa), who urged Paxton and the secretary of state to investigate what they called “serious election irregularities.” U.S. Rep. Chip Roy and District Attorney Sarah Stogner have also requested federal and local investigations into Tanner’s activities.

Tanner’s actions may violate a 2021 state law prohibiting individuals from establishing residency in Texas for the purpose of influencing elections. Lawmakers have linked similar incidents in Loving County to election fraud, theft operations, and other illicit activity.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation as the attorney general’s lawsuit moves forward.