TPEDF Denounces Defamation by The Dallas Express and Threat of Violence Against Volunteer Legal Director
Texas Public Education Defense Fund (TPEDF)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 2, 2025
Contact: [email protected]
Website: www.tpedf.org
TPEDF Denounces Defamation by The Dallas Express and Threat of Violence Against Volunteer Legal Director
Colleyville, TX — The Texas Public Education Defense Fund (TPEDF) is publicly denouncing a defamatory article published by The Dallas Express on August 1, 2025. The article made demonstrably false and malicious claims about the organization and its volunteer senior legal director, Rachel Elizabeth Wall.
The article falsely labeled TPEDF as a “radical-left PAC,” grossly mischaracterized its nonprofit legal advocacy work, and accused Ms. Wall of financial harm and harassment claims that are entirely without factual basis. This reckless publication constitutes a direct act of defamation that has now escalated into a matter of public endangerment.
Since the article’s release, TPEDF has identified a violent social media threat directed at Ms. Wall, which references her by name and calls for her to be lynched. The comment, clearly incited by the article’s inflammatory language, is both chilling and unacceptable.
“This is not just defamation, it’s character assassination that has put a member of our legal team in real danger,” said Andrew D. Sternke, Executive Director of TPEDF. “When media outlets publish lies and vilify public advocates to advance political agendas, they incite violence. That’s exactly what has happened here.”
Rachel Wall is a licensed Texas attorney and respected legal advocate who has worked tirelessly to hold public institutions accountable through lawful and transparent means. For her to now face targeted threats of violence underscores the real-world consequences of weaponized disinformation.
“We condemn this attack, and call it what it is, dangerous, defamatory, and malicious,” Sternke continued. “Those who believe they can silence us through lies or intimidation are mistaken. TPEDF will continue to stand firmly defending public education and democratic values.”
TPEDF calls on responsible members of the press, elected leaders, and the broader public to condemn threats of violence and hold media outlets accountable when their publications spread disinformation and put lives at risk.
About TPEDF
The Texas Public Education Defense Fund is a nonpartisan 501(c)(4) legal advocacy organization committed to defending public education, advancing equity, and holding public officials accountable under the law.
To learn more, visit www.tpedf.org