Illinois Governor Backs Texas Democrats Against GOP Redistricting
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has expressed his support for Texas Democrats who have left their state to challenge Republican attempts at redistricting. He accused former President Trump of trying to “steal” Congressional seats that rightfully belong to the people of Texas and the nation.
“Donald Trump is attempting to take five seats away, not just from Texans, but from Americans,” Pritzker stated during an appearance on CBS’s “Late Show with Stephen Colbert.” He emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating that it involves potential violations of the Voting Rights Act and constitutional principles.
He continued, highlighting how members of the Texas House Democrat Caucus felt their only option to counter the GOP’s actions was to exit Texas. “Where did they decide to come? A safe haven in Illinois. We’re going to protect them and take care of them,” he said, expressing pride in their decision to seek refuge.
Over 50 Texas Democrats are currently in various blue states with the aim of preventing their Republican counterparts from enacting what they believe to be gerrymandered congressional maps during special legislative sessions. This new map is expected to offer Republicans five additional opportunities to secure seats, a strategy supported by Trump as the GOP prepares for challenging midterm elections next year.
Trump commented in an interview with CNBC, asserting that Republicans are “entitled” to these five seats. “Texas has the opportunity to win five seats. There’s a really good governor, and I’ve won Texas before. I received the highest number of votes in Texas history,” he remarked.
This sentiment was echoed by Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick. Meanwhile, Texas Governor Greg Abbott recently ordered the arrest of the Democrats for their absence during important legislative activities, claiming they have breached their oath of office. Additionally, he has filed a lawsuit against Texas House Democratic Speaker Jean Wu amid the ongoing political tension.
Republican leaders in Texas are also pushing for FBI intervention to compel lawmakers to return to Texas and continue the legislative process.
