Abbott Issues Stark Ultimatum: Texas Democrats Must Return or Face Arrest and Expulsion
Republican Governor Greg Abbott has delivered a hardline ultimatum to Texas House Democrats who fled the state in a bold attempt to block a contentious redistricting vote. Abbott demands their return by Monday afternoon—or face possible imprisonment and expulsion from office.
Democrats Flee to Chicago, Defy GOP Redistricting
On Sunday night, nearly 50 Democratic lawmakers arrived in Chicago, effectively denying the Texas House the quorum needed to proceed with the vote. In response to Abbott’s threats, the Texas House Democratic Caucus stood firm, defiantly declaring, “Come and take it.” They denounced the Republican redistricting plan as a “racist mid-decade gerrymandering scheme” designed to secure five additional GOP seats in the upcoming midterms.
Abbott Slams Democrats for Abandoning Their Duty
Abbott sharply rebuked the Democrats for fleeing the state, stating, “Real Texans don’t run from a fight.” He accused them of shirking their responsibilities by leaving Texas and blocking the legislative process.
With the House requiring at least 100 members present to conduct business—and nearly 50 Democrats absent—Abbott emphasized that voting is an elected official’s solemn duty, “not an option.”
Deadline Looms: Return or Face Legal Action
The Texas House is set to reconvene Monday at 3 p.m. Abbott warned that any “derelict” Democrats must return by then or face removal proceedings spearheaded by Attorney General Ken Paxton, who supports locating and arresting the absent lawmakers no matter where they are.
Citing the Texas Constitution, Abbott stated lawmakers who abandon their posts risk losing their seats. He further cautioned that soliciting or accepting funds to evade fines could constitute a felony, alleging such actions might violate bribery laws.
Abbott vowed to use every legal tool available—including full extradition powers—to bring back those evading their duties.
Redistricting Fight Heats Up
The Republican redistricting proposal targets Democratic strongholds such as Dallas and Houston, putting vulnerable Democratic representatives like Jasmine Crockett at risk.
Democrats and Allies Rally Resistance
At a Chicago press conference, House Democratic Caucus Chair Rep. Gene Wu declared, “We are not playing political games. We are here to fight corruption.” Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker praised the lawmakers’ defiant stand as a “righteous act of courage,” accusing Republicans of attempting to silence “millions of voices—especially Black and Latino voters.”
“Texas Democrats had no choice but to leave, block the vote, and defend their constituents,” Pritzker added. The Democrats have not announced when they plan to return.
Capitol Tensions Explode
Tensions boiled over during a five-hour public hearing on the new congressional map—the second redistricting fight in just four years. Speakers from across Texas voiced unanimous opposition.
The hearing erupted when congressional candidate Isaiah Martin refused to end his remarks after exceeding the two-minute limit. Capitol security forcibly removed him as Chairman Cody Vasut ordered, “The sergeants are instructed to escort the gentleman out.” Martin shouted as he was led away, “History will not remember you for your actions!”