Texas AG Paxton Files Lawsuit to Vacate 13 Democratic House Seats

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit with the Texas Supreme Court seeking to vacate the seats of 13 Democratic Texas House members who fled the state to block a GOP-favored redistricting vote, accusing them of abandoning their offices and violating their oaths. Paxton described the Democrats as "cowards" who sabotaged the constitutional process, arguing that their absence demonstrates intent to relinquish their seats. The Democrats left Texas to deny the legislature a quorum during a special session called by Republican Governor Greg Abbott, who warned he would propose even more aggressive maps if they do not return. Paxton's legal action builds on previous efforts, including a lawsuit against Democratic leader Gene Wu and civil arrest warrants sought in Illinois where some Democrats fled. While Texas law permits quorum-breaking as a legislative tactic, legal experts note that such actions historically have not resulted in expulsion. The ongoing standoff underscores a deep partisan battle over redistricting and legislative procedure in Texas.