Texas GOP Pushes For Five More House Seats as Democrats Return to Block Redistricting Amidst Second Special Session

Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced a second 30-day special legislative session on Friday, aiming to pass new congressional maps that could secure up to five additional Republican seats in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Unlike the first session, the conclusion of this session may see the passage of GOP-favorable district lines. Texas House Democrats, who had fled the state to prevent redistricting, indicated on Thursday that they are prepared to end their standoff and return to the State Capitol.

The Democrats have set two conditions for their return: the conclusion of the first special session and California’s introduction of its new congressional map, which could potentially create up to five new Democratic seats in the U.S. House to counterbalance GOP gains in Texas. The California legislature is scheduled to convene on Monday to initiate the legislative process for their proposed map.

Texas House Democrats may return to Austin as early as Monday, according to a source familiar with the matter.

In announcing the second special session, which will commence at 12 p.m. Central (1 p.m. Eastern), Governor Abbott criticized Texas House Democrats for stalling efforts on redistricting and other issues.

“Delinquent House Democrats have abandoned their duty to pass crucial legislation aimed at benefiting Texans,” Abbott stated. “We will not waver from this battle. That’s why I am calling them back today to complete the task. I will persist in employing all necessary means to ensure Texas delivers results for its citizens.”

The Texas House of Representatives and Senate adjourned the first special session on Friday morning, following nearly two weeks of absence by state House Democrats to thwart a quorum.

Upon their return, the Democrats plan to present their case against the bill on the Texas House floor. Legal challenges to the map are also anticipated.

In addition to redistricting, the second special session will address flood relief following the devastating storms in the Texas Hill Country last month and a host of other conservative priorities. The agenda largely mirrors the plans for the first special session but includes consideration of legislation pertaining to camp safety, given the numerous casualties among campers and employees during the July 4 floods in the state.