State Representative Giovanni Capriglione of Texas has publicly denied allegations regarding his involvement in funding multiple abortions during a 17-year affair with a former exotic dancer, Alex Grace. These claims surfaced shortly after Capriglione announced he would not seek reelection, drawing attention from both supporters and critics.
In a video interview published by the conservative news outlet Current Revolt, Grace alleged that Capriglione not only paid her for “meetups” but also financed several abortions for what she described as his own personal gain. While she did not provide specific details regarding the alleged abortions, she stated, “you’re just going to have to go with my word.” The interview spans 25 minutes and details the nature of their relationship, which began when Grace was 18 years old.
In response to the allegations, Capriglione admitted to having had an affair “years ago” but categorically denied funding any abortions. He stated, “I have never, nor would I ever, pay for an abortion.” He remains in his seventh term representing a North Texas district, with approximately 18 months remaining in office.
Amid ongoing legislative sessions, where lawmakers are discussing flood relief and redistricting, Capriglione was notably absent from the House floor last Thursday. In his statement, he reaffirmed his commitment to serve his constituents, stating he would “fight for the people I represent” until his term concludes in January 2027.
The fallout from the allegations prompted Briscoe Cain, a fellow Republican representative, to call for Capriglione’s resignation and request an investigation by the House General Investigating Committee. As of now, Dustin Burrows, the House Speaker, has not commented on the matter.
Capriglione is recognized for his leadership on technology-related legislation and has played a significant role in advancing conservative priorities in the Texas House. He chairs the Innovation and Technology Caucus and has been a key author of several bills, including the Data Privacy and Security Act of 2023. His legislative history includes advocating for the trigger ban that severely restricted access to abortion in Texas following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade.
Grace shared her experiences, describing her early days as an exotic dancer and the nature of her relationship with Capriglione. She recounted their initial meetings at the club and how their relationship evolved, claiming they met at various locations, including Capriglione’s office and hotels. She also mentioned that Capriglione would communicate with her using a burner email to maintain privacy.
Capriglione acknowledged the affair but maintained that he has since moved on and expressed gratitude for his family’s forgiveness. He characterized the allegations as attempts to undermine his work in holding powerful entities accountable.
Grace’s testimony included instances of financial exchanges, claiming that Capriglione provided her with cash payments. She recounted one particular incident where he instructed her to find money hidden under a rubber mat outside a Chuck E. Cheese restaurant.
As their relationship waned, Grace expressed her discontent with Capriglione’s political positions during a phone call in 2019 or 2020, which led to a complete breakdown in communication. She later attempted to reach out to him via email but received no response.
In light of the serious nature of these allegations, Capriglione stated he is not above scrutiny but threatened potential legal action against both Current Revolt and Grace for what he termed “lying and defaming me.”
The unfolding situation surrounding Capriglione highlights significant tensions within Texas politics, particularly regarding issues of personal conduct and public accountability. As the legislative session continues, the implications of these allegations may resonate beyond the immediate controversy, affecting both Capriglione’s future and the broader political landscape in Texas.
