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Texas House Vote Stalled After Democrats Flee State to Block Trump-Backed Map

Gov. Abbott’s untested threats of fines and arrest hang over the session

Overview

  • In early August, 51 Texas House Democrats fled to Illinois and New York to deny the chamber its 100-member quorum and block a scheduled vote on the new congressional map.
  • Texas Republicans advanced a rare mid-decade redistricting plan backed by President Trump to create five additional Republican-leaning U.S. House districts.
  • Gov. Greg Abbott and Attorney General Ken Paxton have threatened missing lawmakers with $500 daily fines, removal from office and possible arrest if they do not return.
  • With no quorum, the Texas House postponed the redistricting vote and the special session now hinges on its August 19 deadline.
  • Governors J.B. Pritzker, Kathy Hochul and Gavin Newsom have offered sanctuary to the absent Democrats, fueling discussion of counter-redistricting measures in their states.