Collier’s Sudden Exit Sparks Outrage Amid Redistricting Controversy
Texas Democratic state Rep. Nicole Collier left a call with California Gov. Gavin Newsom and other Democratic Party members after being informed she was committing a felony for participating in the meeting from a state Capitol bathroom. The incident occurred during a call with Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin, Newsom, and other members of the party, as the Texas House debated a redistricting bill backed by former President Donald Trump. Collier, who has been vocal about the potential impact of the redistricting bill on minority voters, claimed the proposed legislation would violate the Voting Rights Act and could ‘crack and pack’ districts, thereby disenfranchising black and brown individuals. Her comments were met with strong opposition from state leaders, leading to Collier’s abrupt departure from the call.
During the call, Collier’s exit was met with immediate outrage from Newsom and Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J. Booker was particularly vocal, stating, ‘That is outrageous. Let me tell you something, Rep. Collier in the bathroom has more dignity than Donald Trump in the Oval Office.’ Newsom agreed, nodding his head in acknowledgment of the criticism. The incident adds to a growing tension over the redistricting battle, with Democratic lawmakers facing heightened security measures to ensure compliance with state mandates.
Following the Democrats’ decision to flee the state to block the redistricting bill, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and other leaders initiated a campaign to have the rogue Democrats arrested or removed from office. After the lawmakers returned, they faced increased surveillance and scrutiny, including being followed by state police and required to sign ‘permission slips’ before leaving the Capitol. Despite the heightened security, Collier took a stand by remaining on the House floor for two consecutive nights, defying the orders to be escorted by police.
Collier’s actions have drawn both attention and criticism, as Newsom and the Democratic Party have moved forward with their redistricting efforts. Newsom announced his plan to advance a redistricting map in California to counter the Texas bill, which could potentially eliminate five GOP congressional seats. The DCCC and California Democrats have released a new map that may neutralize the gains Republicans could achieve if the Texas redistricting bill is successful. Collier’s office did not comment on the incident, citing the ongoing legislative session as the reason.
The incident highlights the polarizing nature of redistricting and the contentious political landscape it has created. While the redistricting battle in Texas is a significant issue for the Democratic Party, it has also sparked debates about the role of individual lawmakers in shaping policy and the lengths to which state leaders will go to enforce compliance with legislative mandates. The situation remains unresolved, with ongoing tensions and the potential for further backlash from Democratic lawmakers who feel their efforts to protect minority voting rights are being undermined.