Texas Senate Passes New Congressional Maps Amidst Democratic Walkout

Senate Redistricting Vote

• 🏛️ The Texas Senate has passed new congressional maps, with five new Republican majority districts included.
• 🚶‍♀️ Nine Senate Democrats walked out during the vote, but two remained, allowing quorum to be held and the vote to proceed.
• 🗣️ Senate Democrats stated they would not return to the chamber, calling the process a "scam and a sham."

House Democrats' Stance

• ✈️ House Democrats remain out of state, continuing their protest against the redistricting process.
• ⏳ With only seven days left in the legislative session, the House chamber remains at a standstill.

Governor and Attorney General Actions

• 📢 Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick stated the Senate would continue passing the map each session until House Democrats return.
• ⚖️ Texas Attorney General Kim Paxton is seeking to hold a judge in contempt of court over a rally supporting the Democrats' actions.
• 💰 Pressure is mounting to bring House Democrats back, including proposals to cut their funding.

Upcoming Developments

• 🎤 Texas Democrats, who have relocated to Chicago, are expected to speak later today.
• 📰 The situation is developing, with ongoing coverage on air and online.