Live redistricting updates: Dems say there was a bomb threat made at their hotel

U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly, D-Ill., center, stands with other Democratic members of Congress and Texas House Democrats during a press conference at IBEW Local 701 in Warrenville, Ill., on Monday, Aug. 4, 2025. (Credit: Jamie Kelter Davis for The Texas Tribune)

Texas House Democrats have fled the state to block Republicans from redrawing congressional districts in a bid to flip five U.S. House seats held by Democrats. Their departure deprives the Texas Legislature’s lower chamber from the number of members needed to pass legislation and leaves the current special legislative session in limbo.

Gov. Greg Abbott has asked the Texas Supreme Court to remove Houston Rep. Gene Wu, chair of the House Democratic Caucus, from office, an unprecedented escalation in Republicans’ efforts to resume business in the Legislature and advance new congressional districts. Abbott and Attorney General Ken Paxton have threatened to initiate removal proceedings against all Democrats who fled.