Over 50 Texas Democrats have left the state to block a controversial vote on new congressional maps that could heavily favor Republicans ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. The move has triggered sharp threats from Governor Greg Abbott, who warned he may remove them from office if they don’t return immediately.
Why Did Texas Democrats Leave the State?
The group of Democrats traveled to Chicago late Sunday to prevent a vote during a special legislative session. The session was originally called to address Central Texas flooding, but redistricting was added to the agenda after a phone call between former President Donald Trump and Gov. Abbott.
The proposed maps could give Republicans up to five additional seats, which Democrats say is a clear case of gerrymandering targeting Black and Latino voters.
Democrats Face Daily Fines for Skipping Vote
Under Texas House rules, lawmakers who break quorum can be fined $500 per day. The Republicans are pushing to proceed with the vote despite the absence of the Democrats.
Democratic Caucus Chair Gene Wu called the situation a “rigged system” and criticized Gov. Abbott for using a natural disaster to push a partisan agenda.
“We’re not walking out on our responsibilities,” Wu said. “We’re walking out on a system that refuses to listen.”
Abbott Issues Ultimatum: Return or Be Removed
In a statement Sunday night, Gov. Abbott warned that if the Democrats do not return by Monday afternoon, he will move to strip them of their seats.
“This truancy ends now,” Abbott declared.
“I will remove the missing Democrats from membership in the Texas House.”
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton took things even further, threatening to “hunt down” the Democrats and calling their actions potentially criminal if they used fundraising to cover fines.
JB Pritzker and Other Democrats Defend the Move
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker hosted the Texas lawmakers in Chicago and voiced his full support. He said the Republican-led redistricting plan was an attempt to “rig the system” not just in Texas but “against the rights of all Americans.”
Meanwhile, Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin said the DNC would continue to “fight alongside” the lawmakers to stop this “anti-democratic assault.”
Republicans Claim Democrats Are Breaking the Law
Republican leaders argue that skipping the session is not only irresponsible, but may also be illegal.
“In addition to abandoning their offices, these legislators may have committed felonies,” said Abbott.
Past Quorum Breaks Haven’t Stopped Legislation
This isn’t the first time Texas Democrats have used this strategy:
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In 2003, they fled to Oklahoma over redistricting.
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In 2021, they went to Washington, D.C. to protest voter suppression laws.
In both cases, the bills eventually passed after delays.
What’s Next? Legal Battles Likely
Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows confirmed the session will continue Monday. If there’s still no quorum, he warned that “all options will be on the table,” including legal action or even arrests.
Any attempt to forcibly remove lawmakers will almost certainly face court challenges.
Key Takeaways
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Texas Democrats fled to block GOP redistricting vote.
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Abbott threatens removal and legal action.
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Democrats claim the map is racist and unconstitutional.
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Redistricting tied to Trump’s influence.
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Previous quorum breaks delayed, but didn’t stop, legislation.
