Texas Senate Passes New Republican Map

The Texas Senate approved a new Republican map late Tuesday night. While House Democrats are currently in LAM—essentially a standoff—to obstruct a Republican initiative to redraw the Capitol map, the Senate managed to gather enough members to pass the proposal. It’s now in the hands of the House, but there’s uncertainty around when it will be reviewed.

During the voting process, nine Democratic members walked out in protest. However, two stayed behind, allowing the Senate to meet the quorum required for a vote. Ultimately, the new map was passed with a decisive 19-2 majority.

Democrats Concerned Over Gerrymandering

The Senate Democratic Caucus expressed concerns, stating, “If they could gerrymander now, they could and would do it before every election.” This underscores the ongoing tension surrounding redistricting in Texas.

After the Trump administration indicated potential violations of the Voting Rights Act, Texas Republicans sought a new map. Last week, a Republican majority issued a civil arrest warrant aimed at compelling absent Democrats to return; however, it’s worth noting that the warrant is not criminal in nature. It can only be enforced at the state line, which doesn’t lead to jail time.

Past Democratic Walkouts

Texas Democrats famously skipped town in 2021 to avoid voting, and some ended up catching Covid-19 during their time in D.C. Now, Texas Republicans are “trying to use all the legal remedies we have at our disposal to hold these unauthorized legislators accountable,” stated Texas GOP Attorney General Ken Paxton.

This Democratic absence is hindering critical legislation that needs to pass Congress, according to Senator Mays Middleton. Issues at stake include flood disaster relief and protections for women’s spaces, among others.