Illinois Governor Vows to Protect Texas Democrats from A**est
Pritzker Defends Lawmakers Fleeing GOP Redistricting Push
On Sunday, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker (D) announced that his state would protect Texas Democrats who fled to Illinois. These lawmakers left Texas to block Republican efforts to redraw the state’s congressional districts.
“They are in Illinois, and we’ll do everything we can to protect them,” Pritzker said during a press conference alongside the visiting lawmakers. “They are following the law. It’s Ken Paxton and the Texas leadership who are not.”
Democrats Flee to Block Quorum
Texas Democrats walked out of the state to deny the GOP the quorum needed to pass a controversial redistricting plan. Governor Greg Abbott (R) called a special session to push a new map that could give Republicans up to five more congressional seats. The effort has backing from former President Donald Trump, who is urging Republicans to gain an edge before the next midterm elections.
By Saturday, a Texas House committee had approved the proposed maps. With Republicans in control of both chambers and the governor’s office, final approval seemed imminent.
To stall the process, about 50 Democrats left Texas. Most traveled to Democratic-led states like Illinois, New York, and Massachusetts.
GOP Thr**tens A**ests, Fines
In response, Texas Republicans moved to punish the walkout. Governor Abbott’s office and other officials are considering forcing Democrats to return, declaring them in vi*lation of state law, or even vacating their seats.
Breaking quorum carries penalties. Lawmakers face a $500 fine for each day they’re absent and risk a**est. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton posted on X: “Democrats in the Texas House who attempt to escape like cowards should be located, a**ested, and returned to the Capitol without delay.”
A Familiar Political Standoff
This tactic isn’t new. Texas Democrats used similar walkouts in 2003 and 2021 to fig.ht redistricting efforts.
The current showdown is part of a larger national battle. As Texas pushes to redraw its lines, both parties in other states are considering similar moves. This “redistricting arms race” could reshape the balance of power in Congress and inject uncertainty into the upcoming midterms.
However, states like California and New York face more legal constraints. Their constitutions and redistricting commissions limit such maneuvers, making sudden map changes harder.
Abbott Issues De.adline
Abbott warned that Democrats could face arrest or expulsion if they don’t return by Monday afternoon. The Texas House Democratic Caucus fired back with a simple message: “Come and take it.”
Fox News reported Abbott’s criticism of the Democrats’ exit. “Real Texans don’t flee from a fig.ht,” he said. “They walked out instead of voting on legislation that affects all Texans. That’s a failure to serve.”
House Business at a Standstill
To conduct business, 100 of the 150 Texas House members must be present. With around 50 Democrats gone, the House remains stalled.
Abbott emphasized that voting is a core responsibility. “Lawmakers must participate. That’s their job,” he said.
