Texas Democrats Leave the State to Prevent Redistricting Vote

Democratic lawmakers left the state of Texas on Aug. 3 in a dramatic escalation meant to block the consideration of a bill to redraw the state’s congressional maps, intended to increase Republicans’ hold on the lower chamber.

“This is not a decision we make lightly, but it is one we make with absolute moral clarity,” said Gene Wu, chair of the House Democratic Caucus, in a statement.