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When a political party resorts to advocating for gerrymandering as its primary strategy for maintaining power, it’s a clear signal that they’re not exactly basking in a position of strength.
Recent events in the Texas House have unveiled more than the Republican Party would prefer to show about their current political maneuvering.
In a dramatic move, Texas Democrats absconded from the state, effectively blocking a quorum in the House. This tactic has thwarted the Republicans’ attempts to pass a gerrymandered map, allegedly orchestrated at the behest of Donald Trump, which they hope will yield an additional five House seats.
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As the absence of Democrats persisted, Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows addressed the situation, saying:
“Members, your attention please. The roll has been called, and we have not established a quorum. Yesterday, Attorney General Ken Paxton and I initiated steps to domesticate the civil arrest warrants from Illinois, aiming to enforce them beyond Texas borders. I anticipate further legal actions in other states. The chairman has reached out to the sergeant at arms of the Illinois House for assistance in returning absent members.”
“I have been in constant communication with the Department of Public Safety, which is actively trying to locate the absent members to bring them back to our chamber. These efforts will persist throughout the weekend. For those who have fled to Illinois or California, be aware that the FBI has reportedly been involved, and their jurisdiction is not limited to any single state.”
“Regarding new policies in our chamber, Kelly Hancock and I have implemented a measure stating that any member absent with the intention of breaking quorum will no longer receive their paycheck or per diem electronically. While the constitution prohibits us from withholding pay, it does not dictate the method of payment.”
