Paxton Escalates Texas Redistricting Battle, Seeks Expulsion of 13 House Democrats

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has dramatically intensified the state’s contentious redistricting standoff, filing a petition with the Texas Supreme Court on Friday to expel 13 House Democrats. The unprecedented legal action targets lawmakers who left the state in an effort to block the passage of a new congressional map designed to benefit Republicans.

The petition names prominent figures, including House Democratic Caucus Chair Gene Wu, alongside 12 other representatives. Paxton argues that by leaving the state and refusing to return, these Democrats have effectively abandoned their offices, hindering legislative activity. This move follows a similar, though separate, request by Gov. Greg Abbott to expel Rep. Wu, a request Paxton previously questioned.

Legal experts, however, contend that such ‘quorum breaks’ are a historical tactic in Texas politics and do not constitute abandonment of office. Past court rulings, including one from 2021, have affirmed the constitutional enablement of quorum-breaking, though they also allow for ‘quorum-forcing’ measures.

Adding to the complex legal landscape, Paxton also initiated a lawsuit against former U.S. Rep. Beto O’Rourke and his fundraising group, Powered by People, alleging improper financial support for the out-of-state Democrats. A Tarrant County judge has already granted Paxton’s motion to prohibit O’Rourke from financially aiding the absent lawmakers, prompting O’Rourke to file his own lawsuit against Paxton, accusing him of overreach.

The Texas Supreme Court, composed entirely of Republican justices—six of whom were appointed by Governor Abbott—now faces the monumental task of ruling on these high-stakes political and legal battles that could reshape the state’s legislative landscape and set significant precedents for future political maneuvers.

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