💨 Abstract

In August 2025, Texas Democrats fled the state to block GOP efforts to redraw congressional maps favored by President Donald Trump. Texas Republicans threatened to escalate pressure, including removing Democrats from office, if they did not return. Democratic lawmakers faced fines and arrest warrants. The standoff inspired progressives nationwide, with governors like Gavin Newsom in California and JB Pritzker in Illinois suggesting they might redraw their own maps in retaliation.

Courtesy: WTOP Staff