Republican Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on Monday ordered the arrest of more than 50 Democrat lawmakers who fled to prevent the Legislature from redrawing the state’s congressional maps.

“Texas House Democrats abandoned their duty to Texans,” Abbott said in a news release. “By fleeing the state, Texas House Democrats are holding hostage critical legislation to aid flood victims and advance property tax relief. There are consequences for dereliction of duty.”

Abbott also directed the elite Texas Rangers law enforcement agency to investigate any potential violations of Texas law, including bribery.

Read more at Newsmax© 2025 Newsmax. All rights reserved.