The Texas state Senate has passed new congressional maps drawn by Republicans, marking a significant shift in the state’s political landscape. The decision was reached with a 19-2 vote, despite the absence of several Democratic members who walked out in protest. Nine Democratic senators left the chamber during the vote, but two remained to ensure a quorum, allowing the Senate to proceed with the approval of the maps.
House Democrats, who have remained out of state, are continuing to block the passage of the redistricting maps, complicating the legislative process. This absence has created a stalemate in the state legislature, with crucial bills such as flood disaster relief and women’s space protections also facing delays. State Sen. Mayes Middleton has criticized the absence of Democrats, stating that it is impeding the progress of important legislation.
Texas Republicans have launched a legal campaign against the absent Democrats, with Attorney General Ken Paxton declaring that the GOP will pursue all legal remedies to hold the lawmakers accountable. The situation has sparked a broader debate on gerrymandering and voter representation, with the Senate Democratic Caucus warning that the current approach could set a precedent for future elections.
The controversy extends beyond just redistricting, with the Texas House Republicans accusing the Democrats of obstructing the legislative agenda. Meanwhile, the absence of Democrats in Texas has drawn comparisons to past instances where they skipped sessions to avoid votes, including the 2021 legislative session where several lawmakers tested positive for COVID-19 while in Washington, D.C.
As the state moves forward with the new maps, the situation underscores the deepening political divide in Texas. The impact of these maps on future elections and voter representation remains a contentious issue, with both parties vying for control over the state’s political landscape.