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Texas Republicans Look to Jam Democrats With Vote on Redistricting

The New York Times's profile
Original Story by The New York Times
July 22, 2025
Texas Republicans Look to Jam Democrats With Vote on Redistricting

Context:

Texas Republicans are prioritizing a vote on redistricting congressional maps before addressing the urgent flood relief measures following the deadly July 4 floods. This strategic decision aims to discourage Democrats from walking out of the session to block the redistricting efforts, which could impede on flood legislation as well. The redistricting plan, driven by President Trump's call, seeks to gain additional Republican seats in the U.S. House, while Democrats argue that flood relief should take precedence. Some Democrats are considering a walkout as a protest against what they see as gerrymandering, despite potential fines for doing so. The political maneuvering comes amidst a backdrop of pressure from both national and state party leaders and highlights the contentious nature of the session's agenda, which also includes various other legislative issues like abortion pill regulations and property taxes.

Dive Deeper:

  • Texas Republicans plan to vote on redistricting congressional maps before addressing flood relief, a move intended to dissuade Democrats from walking out, which would deny quorum and halt progress on both issues.

  • The legislative session, called by Governor Greg Abbott, is driven by demands for flood response after a disaster that killed at least 135 people and redistricting to gain five additional Republican seats in the U.S. House.

  • Democrats argue that flood relief should be the priority, as the state is still recovering from one of the worst modern disasters, and they have signed a letter urging immediate action on this issue.

  • Despite the urgent need for disaster response, Republicans argue that the logistics of redistricting are simpler and should be addressed first, while Democrats consider a walkout to protest the gerrymandering efforts, facing potential fines for such actions.

  • National Democratic leaders have shown support for Texas Democrats, although logistical challenges prevent quick retaliatory redistricting efforts in states like California, which uses an independent commission for map drawing.

  • The session's agenda is packed with other legislative matters, including restrictions on mail-order abortion pills, regulations on consumable hemp, and property tax adjustments, reflecting a broad and contentious political climate.

  • Democratic leaders are under pressure from both sides regarding the walkout strategy, while Republican leaders remain focused on advancing their legislative priorities despite the potential backlash.

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