Texas Governor Orders Arrest of Democrat Legislators Over Absence During Redistricting Vote
The exit of the Democrat legislators resulted in the Texas House failing to meet the necessary quorum of 100 members.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has directed the Department of Public Safety to detain Democrat lawmakers who left the state to obstruct a controversial vote concerning the redrawing of congressional districts. The order was passed on Monday after a group of lawmakers exited Texas, thereby stopping the state House from reaching the required quorum to carry out legislative duties.
“By leaving the state, Texas House Democrats are holding crucial legislation hostage—meant to help flood-affected citizens and push forward property tax relief. Dereliction of duty carries consequences,” Abbott said in a statement, accusing the missing legislators of neglecting their obligations.
The political deadlock emerged during a special legislative session called by Abbott. The session was meant to deliberate on a redistricting proposal backed by Republicans, along with measures to address relief for recent floods in Texas and a proposed prohibition on THC, a psychoactive substance found in cannabis. However, Democrat lawmakers, calling the redistricting move a partisan gerrymandering attempt aimed at solidifying Republican dominance, left the state on Sunday in a coordinated protest.
The departure of the Democrats meant the Texas House was unable to achieve the necessary quorum of 100 legislators, effectively bringing the legislative process to a halt. Annoyed by the disruption, Abbott issued an order directing law enforcement agencies to track down and detain the absent lawmakers. “The directive shall remain active until all missing Democrat House members are found and brought back to the Texas Capitol,” he said.
Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows also criticised the walkout and warned of serious repercussions. On Monday, the House passed a vote of 85–6 to authorise arrest warrants for the absent members. The House was subsequently adjourned for the day, but Burrows affirmed that the assembly “will fulfil its legislative responsibilities”, whether this week or the next, as reported by The National Desk.
Along with the arrest orders, the missing lawmakers are also subject to monetary penalties. As per a rule introduced in 2021, any legislator who breaks quorum during a legislative vote will be fined $500 per day until they return.
The decision has sparked a political controversy at the national level. Former President Donald Trump has openly supported the redistricting initiative, calling it a chance to strengthen Republican control before the 2026 midterm elections. Meanwhile, Democrat governors Gavin Newsom of California and Kathy Hochul of New York have hinted at reciprocal redistricting strategies.
Speaking from Illinois, Democrat leader Gene Wu defended the decision to walk out. “We’re not abandoning our duties; we’re stepping away from a rigged process that refuses to listen to the voices of the people we represent,” he said.
