Democrats fled the state to stop Republicans’ attempt to redraw congressional districts, but bills aimed at everything from a THC product ban to bolstering flood response are now in doubt.
Politics
Stay informed with The Texas Tribune’s in-depth political coverage, including Texas elections, state government, policy debates, and the leaders shaping the future of the state.
Posted in
Redistricting Texas 2025
Denying quorum has been a Texas political strategy since 1870
While the Democrats could technically derail the GOP’s redistricting map, such efforts have been largely symbolic and had limited success blocking past legislation, experts say.
Posted in
Politics
Harris County leader wants voters to extend child care efforts as pandemic funding runs out
The debate over whether to ask voters to cover the program comes as the nation’s third-largest county faces a projected $270M budget shortfall.
Posted in
Investigations
The IRS says churches can now endorse candidates. That could give Texas pastors more power than ever.
One expert said Texas — with more than 200 megachurches — will be the epicenter for pastors and congregations to test out their new influence.
Posted in
Redistricting Texas 2025
Gov. Greg Abbott threatens Texas House Democrats with removal from office for fleeing state
The governor also alleged absconding Democrats may have committed felonies by fundraising to cover the $500-a-day fines they will face under House rules.
Posted in
Redistricting Texas 2025
Texas House Democrats flee the state in bid to block GOP’s proposed congressional map
The lawmakers’ absence means the lower chamber won’t have enough members present to function, stalling passage of a draft map Democrats have condemned as a political power grab.
Posted in
2026 Texas Elections
In draft congressional map, Texas Republicans bet big that gains with Latino voters will persist
The plan increases the share of Hispanic voters in three of the five districts targeted by the GOP, banking that enough will turn out and vote for Republicans without Donald Trump on the ballot.
Posted in
Redistricting Texas 2025
Texas House panel advances redrawn congressional map that would add more GOP seats
The new district lines could be considered by the entire state House as soon as early next week.
Posted in
Politics
Texas Lottery to pay winner of $83.5M jackpot after withholding prize for months
The agency initially blocked the payout because of two state investigations into now-banned lottery courier services, one of which sold the winning ticket.
Posted in
Redistricting Texas 2025
Texas’ proposed congressional map dismantles districts flagged by DOJ
The Department of Justice said four districts unconstitutionally combined Black and Hispanic voters, a charge the state disputes. If the proposed map passes, two will still be multiracial.