Following a Bold Walkout to Block a Vote, Abbott Thre.at.ens to Oust House Democrats
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Abbott Thr**tens A**est and Expulsion of Texas Democrats
Republican Governor Greg Abbott has issued a firm ultimatum to Texas House Democrats who fled the state to block a redistricting vote. He demands their return by Monday afternoon or faces imprisonment and removal from office.
Democrats Flee to Chicago to Block Vote
On Sunday night, dozens of Texas Democratic state representatives arrived in Chicago to prevent the vote. In response to Abbott’s threat, the Texas House Democratic Caucus defiantly stated, “Come and take it.” They condemned the Republicans’ proposed districts as a “racist mid-decade redistricting scheme” that could add five GOP seats in the next midterms.
Abbott Calls Out Democrats for Abandoning Duty
Abbott sharply criticized the Democrats’ sudden departure. “Real Texans don’t flee from a battle,” he said. He accused them of abandoning their duty by leaving Texas to deny the House the quorum needed to conduct business.
The Texas House requires at least 100 members present to hold sessions, but nearly 50 Democrats have left. Abbott stressed that voting is a mandatory responsibility for elected officials, “not optional.”
D**dline to Return or Face Consequences
The House reconvenes Monday at 3 p.m. Abbott warned that any “derelict Democrat House members” must return by then or risk removal by Attorney General Ken Paxton. Paxton supports locating and arresting the lawmakers regardless of their location.
Abbott also cited the Texas Constitution, stating that lawmakers who abandon their office risk forfeiture. Furthermore, he warned that soliciting funds to evade House fines could be a felony. “Any Democrat who solicits or accepts funds to avoid voting may have violated bribery laws,” Abbott said. He warned that anyone offering such funds could face legal consequences.
Abbott vowed to use full extradition powers to bring back any out-of-state felons.
Redistricting Proposal Sparks Controversy
The GOP’s redistricting plan targets Democratic strongholds like Dallas and Houston. It also threatens Democratic Rep. Jasmine Crockett’s district.
Democrats and Allies Push Back
At a Chicago press conference, House Democratic Caucus Chair Rep. Gene Wu said, “We are not here to play political games. We aim to end this corrupt system.” Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker praised the Democrats’ move as a “righteous act of courage.” He accused Republicans of trying to silence “millions of voices, particularly Black and Latino voters.”
“Texas Democrats had no choice but to leave, block the vote, and protect their constituents,” Pritzker said. So far, the lawmakers have not announced when they will return.
Rising Tensions at the Capitol
Tensions boiled over during a five-hour public hearing on the new congressional map — held just four years after the last redistricting. Speakers from across Texas opposed the proposal; none supported it.
The hearing climaxed when Isaiah Martin, a congressional candidate in District 18, refused to stop speaking after his two-minute time limit. Capitol security forcibly removed him as Chairman Cody Vasut declared, “The sergeants are instructed to escort the gentleman out.” Martin shouted, “History will not remember you for your actions!”
