Rep. Greg Casar (D-Texas) recently expressed concerns in an interview, stating that President Trump is “requiring” allies to “rig” the upcoming 2026 mid-term elections. He accused lawmakers of violating the Voting Rights Act by redrawing the Congressional district around Austin.
“This is a direct threat to our democracy. Donald Trump is, I believe, the most corrupt president in American history, and he seems to lack a genuine strategy for winning future midterms,” Casar, who chairs the Congressional Progressive Caucus, shared with CNN on Monday night. “Essentially, he’s compelling his associates to fake elections on his behalf in this corrupt scheme.”
“I’m truly proud of Texas Democrats for demonstrating across the nation what it means to stand up and fight. Even with some differences on certain issues, I see people engaging at home, all over the country.” He emphasized that voters should select their politicians, not the other way around.
Casar further stated, “Donald Trump shouldn’t have a say in who your Congress members are.”
The dispute over redistricting intensified Monday when Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) ordered the arrest of a Democrat who attempted to flee the state. Over 50 state-level Democrats are trying to leave Texas to disrupt the quorum and pause a special legislative session, in a bid to stall Republican efforts regarding the mid-term electoral program.
Trump praised the initiative, expressing his desire to secure five seats in Texas during the upcoming elections in 2026.
Though some Democrats who left the state have returned amid threats of arrest, Abbott has signaled that they could still face consequences in Texas.
“If Republicans are willing to change these rules to benefit themselves, we are left with no choice but to respond in kind,” remarked New York Gov. Kathy Hochul (D) on Monday.
Representing Texas’ 35th Congressional District, which includes parts of East Austin, Casar labeled the redistricting efforts as violations of the Voting Rights Act.
“If we lose Latino voter representation, which is critical in central Texas, and if Trump is allowed to undermine the Voting Rights Act here in Austin,” Casar stated. “He intends to amplify this across the nation, much like those who mentioned similar issues in Missouri or Louisiana, and beyond.”
