Texas Republicans Seek FBI Help to Find Democrats Fleeing Redistricting Fight

Texas Republicans, led by Sen. John Cornyn and Gov. Greg Abbott, have enlisted the FBI's help to locate Democratic lawmakers who fled the state to block a GOP-led redistricting bill that could cost Democrats five congressional seats. The Democrats, who left for states including Illinois, New York, and Massachusetts, are using their absence to deny the Texas House a quorum, preventing the passage of the controversial map backed by President Donald Trump. While the Texas House issued civil arrest warrants enforceable only within Texas, Cornyn’s request to the FBI aims to extend the search beyond state lines, though the FBI has not confirmed any arrests. Abbott has threatened to remove lawmakers from office and called for the state Supreme Court to declare some seats vacant, while Democrats accuse Abbott of suppressing dissent and vow to continue their opposition. The political standoff includes accusations from Abbott and Paxton about potential bribery related to funding for the Democrats' walkout, which is under investigation by the Texas Rangers. The conflict highlights the broader national battle over redistricting and control of congressional seats ahead of the 2026 elections.