Texas legislators have voted in favor of a new congressional map designed to enhance Republican chances in the upcoming elections for the US House of Representatives. After a two-week standoff that saw Democrats exiting the state to prevent the vote and rally opposition against the redistricting efforts, Republicans succeeded with a vote of 88 to 52 in the Texas House of Representatives. The approved maps are now expected to be quickly endorsed by the Texas Senate.
The new voting lines aim to shift five Democrat-held seats into Republican hands, reinforcing the party's majority in the US House. In response, Democrat-led states are also pushing for redistricting measures to mitigate potential Republican gains. The changes come with backing from Former President Donald Trump, who emphasized the importance of safeguarding a Republican majority for the 2026 congressional ballot.
The controversial vote unfolded amidst dramatic developments, including arrests being issued for some Democrats who fled the state. With at least two-thirds of the Texas House needed for a quorum, negotiations became increasingly tense. State Governor Greg Abbott authorized law enforcement to monitor the fleeing lawmakers' homes. Upon their return, Democrats asserted that extending their absence was pivotal in raising awareness about the redistricting issues and prompted other states to reconsider their mapping strategies.
In an effort to prevent further disruptions, Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows ensured that chamber doors remained locked during the voting process. Furthermore, he arranged for Democrats' return under police escort. Notably, some lawmakers rebelled against these measures; State Representative Nicole Collier opted to spend the night in the House chamber rather than accept police supervision.
As this story develops, more updates will be provided. For ongoing alerts, readers can utilize the BBC News App and follow the latest news on social media.
The new voting lines aim to shift five Democrat-held seats into Republican hands, reinforcing the party's majority in the US House. In response, Democrat-led states are also pushing for redistricting measures to mitigate potential Republican gains. The changes come with backing from Former President Donald Trump, who emphasized the importance of safeguarding a Republican majority for the 2026 congressional ballot.
The controversial vote unfolded amidst dramatic developments, including arrests being issued for some Democrats who fled the state. With at least two-thirds of the Texas House needed for a quorum, negotiations became increasingly tense. State Governor Greg Abbott authorized law enforcement to monitor the fleeing lawmakers' homes. Upon their return, Democrats asserted that extending their absence was pivotal in raising awareness about the redistricting issues and prompted other states to reconsider their mapping strategies.
In an effort to prevent further disruptions, Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows ensured that chamber doors remained locked during the voting process. Furthermore, he arranged for Democrats' return under police escort. Notably, some lawmakers rebelled against these measures; State Representative Nicole Collier opted to spend the night in the House chamber rather than accept police supervision.
As this story develops, more updates will be provided. For ongoing alerts, readers can utilize the BBC News App and follow the latest news on social media.
