Hochul Declares “War” Over Texas GOP Plans
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has declared a sort of “war” against Texas Republicans, particularly targeting plans that could lead to five GOP picks.
Hochul has sharply criticized both President Donald Trump and Texas Governor Greg Abbott, labeling Abbott a “co-conspirator” and accusing them of undermining democracy. She expressed concern that the nation is heading towards authoritarianism.
“What Texas and Republican states are doing at the direction of Donald Trump is essentially a legal riot against our capital,” she stated. “Just because they’re using the legal process, doesn’t mean it’s right. We have to stop it.”
In light of these developments, Hochul mentioned that she is considering gerrymandering as a form of retaliation.
“If Republicans are adjusting these rules for their benefit, they leave us no choice. We need to respond in kind. It feels like a real moment for us,” she remarked. “There’s an old saying: you have to fight fire with fire.”
She added, “Another saying comes to mind: all is fair in love and war. So, I’m looking into options for quickly redrawing the state legislative lines.”
“It’s war. We’re in a war, and we’re not pulling any punches,” she affirmed.
In response, Republican Representative Andy Ogles accused the Democrats of putting New Yorkers in danger with their “political war.” He criticized what he called the Democrats’ desire for government overreach and immigration that would alter the state’s identity.
A recent report indicated that Texas’ new Congressional District Map targets Democratic representatives in urban areas like Austin, Dallas, and South Texas. According to legislators, this draft could still change before it’s finalized.
Currently, Republicans control 25 of Texas’ 38 house seats. Trump had success in 27 of these districts in the 2024 elections.
Texas Democrats have, in some cases, fled the state to prevent voting on the proposed Congressional map.
In reaction, Governor Abbott criticized the Democrats for abandoning their responsibilities. He asserted that “real Texans shouldn’t shy away from the fight,” adding that many Texas House Democrats had left, leading to a lack of quorum.
He insisted that these absences are more than just a failure of duty; he called for the missing members to return and attend a session scheduled for August 4, 2025.
Abbott warned that those who don’t return might face serious consequences, including possible legal action.
Meanwhile, California Governor Gavin Newsom also weighed in, suggesting that Abbott was threatening elected officials for not supporting Trump. “This is the America we’re in, 2025,” he remarked.
