The Texas Supreme Court has decided not to immediately rule on Governor Greg Abbott’s attempt to remove Democratic lawmakers who left the state, instead choosing a longer legal process.
Abbott had asked the court for a ruling within 48 hours after House Democrats departed Texas in early August to prevent a quorum and delay a vote on new congressional district maps. However, the justices declined to expedite the case. Instead, they’ve given both sides until early September to submit legal arguments — beyond the expected end of the current special legislative session, according to reporting from the Texas Tribune.
Abbott and Paxton Pursue Legal Action
Despite the delay, Abbott described the court’s action as a step forward, saying the schedule brings Democratic leaders “closer to consequences.” His lawsuit singles out Representative Gene Wu of Houston, head of the House Democratic Caucus. Separately, Attorney General Ken Paxton is suing to unseat Wu along with 12 other Democratic lawmakers.
Initially, Abbott and Paxton disagreed on which office had the authority to take legal action, but Paxton has since stated he is committed to collaborating with the governor to “hold these legislators accountable.”
Democrats’ Walkout Blocks Redistricting Vote
On August 3, several dozen House Democrats left Texas, leaving the chamber without the minimum number of members required to conduct official business. The walkout was aimed at halting the GOP-led redistricting proposal, which emerged following pressure from former President Donald Trump. Trump has backed plans to redraw congressional lines in a way that could net Republicans up to five additional House seats, strengthening their slim majority before the 2026 midterms.
Democrats argue the redistricting plan is a partisan effort to lock in Republican dominance, though critics also point out that Democratic-controlled states have used similar redistricting tactics.
Unprecedented Legal Territory
No Texas lawmaker has ever been expelled from office for breaking quorum. The high court’s eventual decision could create a legal precedent with lasting consequences for both political parties — especially as fights over redistricting intensify across the country.
