U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R) has called on the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to assist Texas authorities in investigating potential criminal acts by lawmakers who fled the state to stall legislative proceedings. In a letter to FBI Director Kash Patel, Cornyn cited concerns about bribery and other public corruption offenses.
“As a maneuver to avoid legislative responsibilities, on August 3, 2025, many members in the Texas House of Representatives absconded from the state. Their stated goal was to prevent the legislature from properly meeting, in violation of their oath of office,” Cornyn wrote.
Cornyn noted that some out-of-state actors have publicly pledged to shield the legislators from accountability. He emphasized the FBI’s ability to support state law enforcement when individuals cross state lines to avoid legal obligations.
Cornyn highlighted concerns that legislators who accepted funds to evade their duties could be guilty of bribery.
“Governor Abbott and Texas state law enforcement officers are doing what they can within the confines of the law, but federal help may be necessary,” Cornyn wrote. “These legislators have committed potential criminal acts in their rush to avoid their constitutional responsibilities and must be fully investigated and held accountable.”
President Donald Trump, who had been largely silent on the issue, also commented. When asked whether the FBI should become involved, Trump said the agency “may have to.”
“The governor of Texas is demanding they come back,” Trump said. “You can’t just sit it out. You have to go back. You have to fight it out. That’s what elections are all about.”
The request from Cornyn signals an escalation in the ongoing standoff between Texas Republican leaders and Democratic lawmakers.
