Texas Governor Greg Abbott Threatens Expulsion of Democrat Lawmakers Over Congressional Map Vote

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has issued a stern warning to Democrat lawmakers, threatening expulsion if they do not return to Austin to vote on new congressional maps, crucial for upcoming elections. In a press release, Abbott expressed frustration over lawmakers leaving the state to avoid their duties.

Key Points of Abbott’s Statement

• Governor Abbott stated that Democrat lawmakers fleeing Texas to avoid a quorum is a severe dereliction of their responsibilities.
• He called their absence "premeditated" and aimed at sabotaging the legislative process.
• Abbott plans to utilize Texas Attorney General Opinion No. KP-0382 to remove absent lawmakers if they do not return by the designated time.

Serious Implications of Absenteeism

In the letter addressed to the missing lawmakers, Abbott outlined the gravity of their actions:

• Legal Consequences: If lawmakers remain absent, Abbott indicated that he would seek legal action to declare their seats vacant. According to AG Ken Paxton’s opinion, courts would need to determine if the absence constitutes a forfeiture of office.
• Daily Fines: Legislators will incur a fine of $500 for each day they miss the session. Abbott has warned that those soliciting funds to cover these fines may face felony charges, potentially violating bribery laws under Texas Penal Code § 36.02.

Details of the Upcoming Session

The Texas House is scheduled to reconvene at 3:00 PM on August 4, 2025. Abbott has made it clear that Democrat lawmakers must return by this date to fulfill their legislative duties.

Quotes from Governor Abbott’s Letter

• "This truancy ends now. The derelict Democrat House members must return to Texas."
• "It’s not optional. It’s a duty."

These statements underline his insistence on accountability and the obligation of elected officials to participate in the legislative process.

Response from Texas Democrats

In reaction to Abbott’s threats, the Texas House Democratic Caucus issued a brief but emphatic statement: "Come and take it." They characterized the Republicans’ proposed congressional maps as a "racist mid-decade redistricting scheme," suggesting they view the changes as politically motivated.

Conclusion

Governor Abbott’s firm stance against absentee lawmakers marks a critical juncture in Texas politics. As tensions rise over congressional map redistricting, the implications of this standoff could resonate through the state’s upcoming elections.

For further insight into this political saga, visit Fox News and Texas Tribune, where ongoing coverage of Texas politics is available.