In a major escalation of the ongoing redistricting conflict, Texas Republicans have imposed strict measures on Democratic lawmakers who fled the state to block the GOP’s proposed congressional map. More than 50 Democratic representatives left Texas, preventing the House from reaching a quorum and halting legislative activity.

House Speaker Dustin Burrows announced that these absent lawmakers would no longer receive their paychecks via direct deposit. Instead, they must collect their salaries in person at the Capitol in Austin. On top of that, 30% of their pay will be withheld to cover daily fines of $500, which continue to accumulate for each day they remain absent.

The Republican-led redistricting plan, supported by former President Donald Trump, aims to redraw Texas congressional districts, potentially creating five additional Republican-leaning seats for the 2026 midterm elections. Democrats argue that the plan amounts to partisan gerrymandering and have used the quorum break tactic to prevent its passage, a strategy previously employed in 2021.

Tensions have escalated further, with Republican leaders threatening expulsion and legal action against the absent lawmakers, including potential felony charges for fundraising to cover fines. The dispute has drawn national attention, with Democratic governors, including California’s Gavin Newsom, voicing support for the Texas Democrats and warning of similar redistricting actions in their own states. As both sides remain entrenched, the standoff could have long-term implications for Texas politics and the balance of power in the U.S. House of Representatives, with no immediate resolution in sight.