Senator John Cornyn, a Republican from Texas, has requested the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in locating Democratic state lawmakers who reportedly left the state to obstruct a vote on new congressional district maps. The lawmakers, who are part of the state legislature, are accused of fleeing Texas under the guise of a procedural objection, which has sparked concerns about the integrity of the legislative process.
Cornyn, speaking at the state Capitol, emphasized the importance of ensuring that all legislators are present for critical votes. He stated that the absence of these lawmakers has created a significant hurdle in the legislative calendar, particularly as the state continues to navigate redistricting processes that could reshape political representation for years to come.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation has confirmed its willingness to assist in the search for the missing legislators, though it has not yet provided any details on the scope of its involvement. Cornyn’s call for federal help underscores the contentious nature of redistricting in Texas, where Republicans have long sought to draw maps that favor their party’s electoral prospects.