Texas Democrats fled the state Sunday to deny the GOP a legislative quorum as part of an effort to prevent Republicans from redrawing the Lone Star State’s congressional maps. The move deprives the Texas state Legislature of the numbers it needs to function, stalling progress on the maps — but comes with big risks for the state Democrats, including steep fines and the threat of arrest.
It adds another layer to the battle that’s been brewing in Texas, though it’s unclear just how much this could impact the GOP plans. Separately, talk of redistricting is building in other states as both parties ready for next year’s high-stakes midterms.
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