DNC Chairman Ken Martin Commends Party’s Response to Texas GOP Maps
On Monday, Ken Martin, the Chairman of the Democratic National Committee (DNC), voiced strong support for the party’s actions against Texas’ Republican-drawn congressional maps.
“I’m just really tired of Democrats showing up with pencils in a knife fight. We can’t just play by the rules anymore; we need to fight back,” Martin expressed during a meeting in Minnesota.
He emphasized the urgency of the situation, saying, “This country is facing insidious threats from within, and we all need to step up and fight for it… Are you ready? Because Texas is always ready!” His remarks were met with cheers from the audience.
Earlier this month, Texas Democrats took drastic measures by leaving the state to prevent the inclusion of five additional GOP House seats, which were crucial for Republican control. Following a tense two-week standoff that involved potential arrests, some lawmakers returned, and the GOP map was swiftly approved over the weekend.
Martin remarked on the situation, saying, “President Trump and Texas Governor Greg Abbott wanted a showdown, and we certainly gave them one.”
Meanwhile, California lawmakers have taken steps in response to actions in Texas. A special election in November will ask voters to approve a temporary redistricting plan aimed at securing five additional Democratic House seats, countering Republican efforts in Texas.
“Texas Republicans may have put together some advantageous maps, but I know Trump won’t stop there. He’s giving directives to other states to gerrymander as well,” Martin warned.
Trump has also intensified his opposition to mail-in voting, seeking to reshape it to benefit the Democratic Party while imposing restrictions through executive orders.
Additionally, Martin praised Texas Representative Nicole Collier, a Democrat, who, instead of relying on police escorts, spent the night on the Texas House floor to oppose the GOP’s map effort. Collier’s actions, which garnered significant public attention, led her to abruptly leave a DNC call last week after being warned about potential felony charges.
He characterized Collier’s situation as that of “a political prisoner at the Texas Capitol.”
Addressing party members in his hometown of Minneapolis, this was the first official DNC meeting since Martin assumed the chairman role. The party is navigating significant challenges as it prepares for high-stakes midterm elections, facing internal turmoil and fundraising concerns.
Jean Wu, the Caucus Chair of the Texas House Democratic Party, also attended the DNC meeting, commending Collier’s bravery and thanking Martin for his support during the crisis in Texas.
