Texas GOP issues warrants to civilly arrest fleeing democrats

WASHINGTON D.C. (ValleyCentral) — Texas Republicans have issued warrants seeking the civil
arrest of more than 50 fellow lawmakers.

It comes after Democrats fled the state this week to block a proposed congressional redistricting
plan, which was expected to reach a vote on Monday. Legislators left Austin in an attempt to
prevent Republicans from approving a map they say is designed to give the GOP an advantage
in the 2026 elections.

Now, Gov. Greg Abbott announced he wants the absent lawmakers removed from office and has
ordered state law enforcement to carry out civil arrests.

The GOP-backed plan, supported by President Trump, would add five Republican-leaning seats
to the U.S. House. Supporters argue the new lines would better reflect the state’s population
and political change.

“Texas has changed and become redder, and the current congressional lines don’t reflect that,” said Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX).

But Democrats say the map is an attempt to rig the next election. Rep. Henry Cuellar, D-Texas,
urged Republicans to focus on other priorities, including flood relief.

“Instead of focusing on the flood victims, they’re focusing on partisan redistricting,” said Cuellar.

“We know it’s pure politics, what they’re trying to do is rig the election before 2026,” stated Cuellar. When asked if he feared losing his seat, Cuellar replied, “No.”

Matthew Klein, an analyst of U.S. House elections at the nonpartisan Cook Political Report, said
two South Texas districts — including Cuellar’s — would remain competitive even under the
proposed map.

“They’re still not guaranteed flips,” Klein said, noting that one district would regain areas Cuellar
previously represented.

In response to Texas’s redistricting effort, Democrats in New York and California have
threatened retaliatory moves to offset Republican gains.

“This is a war. We are at war. And that’s why the gloves are off and I say bring it on,” said Kathy Hochul, Governor of New York.