After a two-week quorum break, Texas House Democrats have returned to Austin, ending their protest against a Republican-led congressional redistricting bill. The return allows legislative business to resume in the second special session called by Governor Greg Abbott (R).
Democrats had left the state to block a vote on a redistricting proposal that would likely give Republicans five additional congressional seats. By denying the House a quorum, the minimum number of members needed to conduct official business, they effectively stalled not only redistricting but 17 other legislative priorities, including flood recovery and education reform.
While Democrats claimed a short-term victory by halting the bill in the first special session, Republican leadership is moving swiftly to make up for lost time.
“A quorum is present, and it's time to resume the work for the people of Texas,” said House Speaker Dustin Burrows.
Rep. Toni Rose (D) emphasized the broader impact of the walkout, “Gaining five seats will also impact the entire country, and we wanted to slow it down.”
Rep. Gene Wu (D), echoed the sentiment, arguing the protest forced national attention on gerrymandering and voter suppression efforts.
Supporters cheered as about 30 Democratic lawmakers returned to the Capitol. However, Republican leaders have signaled that consequences are coming. Democrats face $500 fines for each day missed, and each was assigned a Department of Public Safety officer to ensure their return.
Rep. Tony Tinderholt (R) called for stronger penalties, “If you can’t be here to do your duty... you shouldn’t even be in elected status.”
With the second special session now underway, Republican leaders aim to pass the redistricting maps by week’s end and complete the remaining agenda by Labor Day.
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