Texas Governor Greg Abbott has issued a strong warning to Democratic lawmakers who left the state in an attempt to derail a special legislative session on redistricting. The group of Texas Democrats reportedly traveled to Illinois to avoid participating in a vote that could shift the political map in favor of Republicans.
Democrats Break Quorum to Block Redistricting Vote
In an effort to stop a Republican-backed congressional map, the lawmakers broke quorum by fleeing the state. This prevented the Texas House of Representatives from conducting official business during a special session. The proposed redistricting plan is expected to create five new GOP congressional seats.
This is not the first time Democrats have used this tactic. In 2021, a similar move was made to delay voting on election legislation.
Governor Abbott: Skipping Duties Could Lead to Removal
Governor Abbott condemned the lawmakers’ actions, stating they intentionally avoided their responsibilities. “This wasn’t a personal emergency,” he said. “This was a coordinated strategy to disrupt government.”
He explained that intentionally abandoning legislative duties could result in the loss of their elected office. Abbott cited a legal opinion that supports removing lawmakers who break quorum on purpose.
“When the Governor calls a special session, lawmakers are required to attend. It’s not optional,” Abbott emphasized.
Possible Criminal Charges for Fundraising Efforts
In addition to political consequences, the governor warned of potential felony charges. He said some Democrats are raising funds to pay fines for skipping the session, which could violate Texas bribery laws.
According to the Texas Penal Code, anyone offering or accepting money in exchange for avoiding official duties could face serious legal consequences.
Deadline Set: Lawmakers Must Return by August 4, 2025
Abbott gave the absent legislators a clear deadline: return to Texas by Monday, August 4, 2025, when the House is scheduled to reconvene. If they fail to appear, Abbott vowed to pursue legal action to remove them from office and potentially extradite them from other states if necessary.
It seems to me that the only way some of the fleeing Democrats can avoid bribery charges is to not break quorum.
— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) August 4, 2025
It seems that would eliminate any potential quid pro quo connected to any payment they received to deny a quorum and skip a vote. https://t.co/eyTbgybLvW
Final Word from Governor Abbott
“The people of Texas expect their elected officials to do their jobs,” Abbott said. “Running away from votes is not leadership—it’s cowardice. This ends now.”
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