Texas GOP Seeks Redistricting Vote Amid Democratic Quorum Boycott

Texas is currently embroiled in a political standoff as House Democrats continue to deny a quorum to block a controversial mid-decade redistricting effort by Republicans aimed at adding five GOP-leaning congressional seats. This tactic recalls a similar walkout in 2003 led by Democrat Jim Dunnam, but the current Republican response is far more aggressive, including efforts by Gov. Greg Abbott and Attorney General Ken Paxton to expel absent Democrats and seek their extradition. The Democrats' quorum break has stalled not only redistricting but other legislative priorities, drawing criticism from Republicans who urge a return to work. Meanwhile, California Gov. Gavin Newsom has called on President Trump to accept a ceasefire, warning that California will redraw its own maps to counteract any GOP gains in Texas, escalating the issue into a national political conflict. Amid this upheaval, Democratic Representatives Lloyd Doggett and Greg Casar face a potential primary battle in the newly drawn GOP-backed district map, as Republicans seek to consolidate gains and carve out vulnerable Democratic seats. The situation underscores the high-stakes partisan battle over political power and representation in Texas, with implications reaching beyond the state.