Texas Governor Abbott Orders Arrests of 56 Democratic Lawmakers Fleeing State

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has ordered the Texas Department of Public Safety to arrest Democratic lawmakers who fled the state to block a Republican-backed congressional redistricting plan, which stalled the legislative session by breaking quorum. Abbott accused the Democrats of abandoning their duties and holding hostage critical legislation, including disaster relief and property tax relief, and warned of potential removal from office and felony charges for those evading the vote. Speaker Dustin Burrows supported the order, issuing warrants to compel the return of absent Democrats and emphasizing the need to address urgent state issues. The absent lawmakers primarily gathered in Illinois and New York as a political protest against the redistricting effort that would benefit Republicans in the 2026 midterm elections. The standoff marks a significant political confrontation in Texas, with Republicans determined to advance their agenda despite the Democrats' walkout. Prominent conservative voices have urged Abbott to enforce strict consequences to prevent such tactics in the future.