Texas House Lawmaker’s vote on a motion to issue arrest warrants for their Democrat colleagues who fled the state rather than vote on redistricting. (@DPerreaultTV / X screen shot)

Last week, Texas Democrats fled the state to block the Republicans in the legislature from holding a special session and to block a redistricting vote.

On Friday, Texas Democrats again defied Republican Gov. Greg Abbott and the state GOP and failed to appear for a vote on the redistricting plan proposed by Republicans.

The special session began at 2:00 p.m. ET and the legislative body failed to reach a quorum.

BREAKING: The Democrats did NOT return to Texas by today’s 1pm CT deadline

It’s time to REMOVE THEM FROM OFFICE!

The FBI is now assisting Texas in locating the absconded members, and are working with Sergeants at Arms in other states to arrest them.

Democrats will now NO… pic.twitter.com/mwPqPiKaho

— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) August 8, 2025

The Texas House speaker announced increased punishments for the Dems who fled including:

No more direct deposits for paychecks, they must be picked up in person

30% of Dems’ office budgets will be cut

A $500 a day fine

They must appear in person for any reimbursements

They are banned from sending newsletters

They are subject to possible arrest by the FBI

Watch:

JUST IN: Texas House Speaker announces INCREASED punishments for Democrats who fled

➡️ Paychecks MUST be picked up in person (no more direct deposit)
➡️ 30% of Democrats’ office budgets cut
➡️ $500 fine per day
➡️ Must appear in person for any reimbursements
➡️ Banned from… pic.twitter.com/9vBMvhBYcB

— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) August 8, 2025

Texas Governor Greg Abbott (R) has threatened to remove the Democrat lawmakers who fled from office.