Texas GOP Seeks FBI Help to Track Democrats Fleeing Redistricting Vote

Texas Democrats fled the state to block a Republican-led redistricting plan, prompting Texas Republicans, including Sen. John Cornyn and Gov. Greg Abbott, to seek FBI assistance in locating and potentially arresting the absent lawmakers. Cornyn requested FBI involvement citing concerns over potential bribery and public corruption, and FBI Director Kash Patel reportedly approved the request, though the FBI has not been visibly active in pursuing the Democrats. Democrats and their allies, including Rep. Jamie Raskin and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, strongly oppose the FBI's involvement, arguing that it represents an abuse of federal law enforcement for political purposes and that the FBI lacks legal authority in this state-level dispute. Texas Democrats have condemned the manhunt rhetoric as authoritarian and dangerous, emphasizing their constitutional right to break quorum as a form of political dissent. The dispute highlights broader tensions over redistricting efforts perceived as partisan power grabs, with national figures like President Trump and Gov. Abbott supporting Republican actions to secure more congressional seats. Despite the escalating rhetoric and legal maneuvers, Democrats remain defiant and visible in other states, continuing their opposition to the GOP's redistricting strategy.