Texas Democrats leave state to try to stop GOP voting bill

[Wyatt earp]

Oh fuck you!

You can not arrest someone without the other State permission you stupid fucking retard!

Are you an attorney ?

Are you?

Show me where Texas Law Enforcement has the authority to enter another State to make an arrest without the State permission?

You do know Texas Law Enforcement must notify the State and Local Authority about a possible arrest and the Local Authority must make the arrest and not Texas Law Enforcement!

Once a warrant is made you have no choice pecker head what ever state you flee too.

Oh there are all kinds of choices.

Without the power to arrest or detain, Tex-Ass Rumpers can sit around with thump up their collective ass.

No law was broken. D.C. can compel proof of unlawful activity.

Tex-Ass Rumpers cannot do a damn thing.

Except vote them out in droves come 22.

They are supposed to be representing their constituents.

They say democracy is under attack and then run like scalded dogs, circumventing democracy and not voting on laws they were elected to vote on just because they might lose. Take their ball and go home, that's what dems do.

Dems are funny.

Democracy is under attack when republicans trash the capitol.
Filibusters happen all the time but you never say a word when it suits you.

Remember this if it doesn't hurt. You say vote them out in 22.
If you didn't vote them in, you cannot vote them out. Think about it.

The same for democrats in DC.

Once again, the US is not a democracy

Here's a description from wiki. Notice is says democracy controlled by the people. I accept your ignorance apology.

A republic (Latin: res publica, meaning "public affair") is a form of government in which "power is held by the people and their elected representatives".[1] In republics, the country is considered a "public matter", not the private concern or property of the rulers. The primary positions of power within a republic are attained through democracy or a mix of democracy with oligarchy or autocracy rather than being unalterably occupied by any given family lineage or group.

wiki?

Once again the people of California took up a mob vote and said no to gay marriage

Yes that's right and it is still a democracy even if some ignoramus doesn't think so.

You smoking crack again?

If the USA was a democracy gays couldn't marry, abortion would be illegal

No response ? I accept your surrender once again

I accept yours when you did not respond when you claim I was arrested and claimed I said I was and when proven I never made the claim you went silent.

See Bear you claim victory is yours when it is never yours and you have also been wrong in this thread.

The U.S. is both a Republic and a Representative Democracy but not a pure Democracy, so why don’t you stop being an asshole when discussing and use proper links to make your argument with instead.

It is like you thinking the Texas Law Enforcement can enter another State without it permission to make an arrest when they can not and not knowing the differences between county warrants, in State warrants, multiple State Warrants and warrants for Rape, Murder and heinous crimes.

You believe all warrants are equal which they are not and you believe anyone with one will automatically go to jail, which they do not unless the warrant is for a severe crime or you are within the jurisdiction of the warrant.

So the warrant here in Texas for the Democrats will not be executed in DC and those Democrats will not be arrested until they come back here!

You admitted you were arrest you moron in this thread

 

[bodecea]

News reports showed happy Democrat members of the Texas legislature laughing and joking, on a private charted jet, designed to take them out of the state, to thwart a vote on election integrity, by stopping a quorum. When they come back they're going to be arrested, and will be doing jail time. Maybe the news media will show us the before and after pictures. Should be an interesting contrast.

Amazing how these legislators turned criminals, can so lightly and flippantly think they can use election fraud to get themselves re-elected, as if the fraud-riddled 2020 election outrages, should now be thought of as normal. Nothing could be farther from the truth. This important vote on election integrity is going to happen, and the laws that need to be passed are going to be.

One of the Democrat legislators flying out of the state, state Rep. Trey Martinez Fischer said “We’ve left our jobs, we’ve left our families, we’ve left our homes. Because there is nothing more important than voting rights in America.” What he really means is >> there is nothing more important TO DEMOCRATS, than ILLEGAL voting rights FOR ILLEGAL ALIENS, In America.”

Here is a quote from Texas governor Greg Abbot, from KVUE, 2 hours ago>>

"There is something the governor can do. First of all, I’ll tell you what the House of Representatives can do. What the speaker can do is issue a call to have these members arrested. In addition to that, however, I can and I will continue to call a special session after special session after special session all the way up until election next year. And so if these people want to be hanging out wherever they’re hanging out on this taxpayer-paid junket, they’re going to have to be prepared to do it for well over a year. As soon as they come back in the state of Texas, they will be arrested, they will be cabined inside the Texas Capitol until they get their job done. "

UPDATE: Gov. Abbott Says Dem Lawmakers Who Fled Texas 'Will Be Arrested' Upon Return - Headline USA

UPDATE Tues. 7/13/21 9:00 AM from an interview with Gov. Greg Abbott by KVUE: There is something the governor can do. First of all, I’ll tell you what the House of Representatives can do. What the speaker can do is issue a call to have these members arrested. In addition to that, however, I can […]

headlineusa.com

Even your article, quoting the Governor listed no statute that would allow for arrest and no penalties. I would be interested in seeing it, if it exists. I have never heard of a law anywhere in the country that says people walking of the job, can be arrested or imprisoned. Has Texas fallen to a communist takeover by it's own Governor?

Fascist..

The Governor of Texas is talking about arresting legislators coming back into the state of Texas and you call me a Fascist?

Stating the Governor is a fascist, not you.

 

[bodecea]

And exactly what shall they be arrested for?

It's Texas Constitutional Law. Law makers can be arrested for not attending special sessions.

And you don't see a problem with this?

They RAN campaign to win those seats. They kept other Texans out of their seat. It isn't a position they can simply ignore when it's not convenient or strategic for them to be there. There should be a clause that enables the governor or other legislature members to impeach and remove them.

Poor trump morons still think legislators can be impeached.

 

[bravoactual]

Democracy is at risk from Racist Fascist Fuck Wad Cons. The Right To Vote is a Constitutinally Protected Right.

Fuck Abbott and fuck the fasicsts.

 

[asaratis]

Oh fuck you!

You can not arrest someone without the other State permission you stupid fucking retard!

Are you an attorney ?

Are you?

Show me where Texas Law Enforcement has the authority to enter another State to make an arrest without the State permission?

You do know Texas Law Enforcement must notify the State and Local Authority about a possible arrest and the Local Authority must make the arrest and not Texas Law Enforcement!

Once a warrant is made you have no choice pecker head what ever state you flee too.

Oh there are all kinds of choices.

Without the power to arrest or detain, Tex-Ass Rumpers can sit around with thump up their collective ass.

No law was broken. D.C. can compel proof of unlawful activity.

Tex-Ass Rumpers cannot do a damn thing.

Except vote them out in droves come 22.

They are supposed to be representing their constituents.

They say democracy is under attack and then run like scalded dogs, circumventing democracy and not voting on laws they were elected to vote on just because they might lose. Take their ball and go home, that's what dems do.

Dems are funny.

Democracy is under attack when republicans trash the capitol.
Filibusters happen all the time but you never say a word when it suits you.

Remember this if it doesn't hurt. You say vote them out in 22.
If you didn't vote them in, you cannot vote them out. Think about it.

The same for democrats in DC.

Once again, the US is not a democracy

Well can you explain to the world what a democracy us?

Now see how good you are.

Mob rule! Minority be damned! The Senate filibuster often precludes that. Thank God there's such protection in our Republic!

 

[bravoactual]

Even Texas Officials admit there was negligible Election/Voter Fraud. Record turn out. Huge voter numbers and Tex-Ass ReThugs engineer very restrictive voter suppression laws.

The only threat to American Democracy are Fascist ReThugs.

Fuch them.

 

[asaratis]

Oh fuck you!

You can not arrest someone without the other State permission you stupid fucking retard!

Are you an attorney ?

Are you?

Show me where Texas Law Enforcement has the authority to enter another State to make an arrest without the State permission?

You do know Texas Law Enforcement must notify the State and Local Authority about a possible arrest and the Local Authority must make the arrest and not Texas Law Enforcement!

Once a warrant is made you have no choice pecker head what ever state you flee too.

Oh there are all kinds of choices.

Without the power to arrest or detain, Tex-Ass Rumpers can sit around with thump up their collective ass.

No law was broken. D.C. can compel proof of unlawful activity.

Tex-Ass Rumpers cannot do a damn thing.

Except vote them out in droves come 22.

They are supposed to be representing their constituents.

They say democracy is under attack and then run like scalded dogs, circumventing democracy and not voting on laws they were elected to vote on just because they might lose. Take their ball and go home, that's what dems do.

Dems are funny.

Democracy is under attack when republicans trash the capitol.
Filibusters happen all the time but you never say a word when it suits you.

Remember this if it doesn't hurt. You say vote them out in 22.
If you didn't vote them in, you cannot vote them out. Think about it.

The same for democrats in DC.

Once again, the US is not a democracy

Here's a description from wiki. Notice is says democracy controlled by the people. I accept your ignorance apology.

A republic (Latin: res publica, meaning "public affair") is a form of government in which "power is held by the people and their elected representatives".[1] In republics, the country is considered a "public matter", not the private concern or property of the rulers. The primary positions of power within a republic are attained through democracy or a mix of democracy with oligarchy or autocracy rather than being unalterably occupied by any given family lineage or group.

wiki?

Once again the people of California took up a mob vote and said no to gay marriage

Yes that's right and it is still a democracy even if some ignoramus doesn't think so.

Definition of DEMOCRACY

government by the people; especially : rule of the majority; a government in which the supreme power is vested in the people and exercised by them directly or indirectly through a system of representation usually involving periodically held free elections… See the full definition

www.merriam-webster.com

Definition of REPUBLIC

a government having a chief of state who is not a monarch and who in modern times is usually a president; a political unit (such as a nation) having such a form of government… See the full definition

www.merriam-webster.com

Is the United States a Republic or a Democracy?

The United States of America is governed as a federal republic, and therefore some argue that the U.S. is not a democracy. Learn more about the government of the US.

www.worldatlas.com

The U.S. is first a Republic and also a Representative Democracy which should never be confused as pure Democracy.

Call it or define it with any words you want. The fact remains, a government installed by the people is a democracy.
Calling it a republic is the same.

I gave you the fucking definitions and a link on the differences, so it is your fucking choice you ignorant ass if you want to accept them or not but the U.S. is not the type of Democracy you claim it is, so stop trolling!

The U.S. is a Republic with a Representative Democracy and not a pure Democracy like you believe!

Little Colon likes to depend on wiki definitions. Wiki is an openly editable information source.

 

[Wyatt earp]

Even Texas Officials admit there was negligible Election/Voter Fraud. Record turn out. Huge voter numbers and Tex-Ass ReThugs engineer very restrictive voter suppression laws.

The only threat to American Democracy are Fascist ReThugs.

Fuch them.

Translation~ negros are to stupid to get an ID

 

[marvin martian]

I thought this was hilarious

Texas Democrats leave state to try to stop GOP voting bill​

​

​

A private plane is readied for Democrats from the Texas Legislature as they arrive by bus to board and head to Washington, D.C., Monday, July 12, 2021, in Austin, Texas. By leaving, Democrats again deny the GOP majority a quorum to pass bills, barely a month after their walkout thwarted the first push for sweeping new voting restrictions in Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)​

​

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Democrats in the Texas Legislature bolted Monday for Washington, and said they were ready to remain there for weeks in a second revolt against a GOP overhaul of election laws, forcing a dramatic new showdown over voting rights in America.​

Private planes carrying more than 50 Democrats left Austin for Dulles International Airport midafternoon, skipping town just days before the Texas House of Representatives was expected to give early approval to sweeping new voting restrictions in a special legislative session. The numbers meant the House would not have enough lawmakers in attendance to conduct business and could not, at least for now, vote on the bill.​

​

The cross-country exodus was the second time that Democratic lawmakers have staged a walkout on the voting overhaul, a measure of their fierce opposition to proposals they say will make it harder for young people, people of color and people with disabilities to vote. But like last month’s effort, there remains no clear path for Democrats to permanently block the voting measures, or a list of other contentious GOP-backed proposals up for debate.​

Hours after they took off, Republican Gov. Greg Abbott told an Austin television station he would simply keep calling special sessions through next year if necessary, and raised the possibility of Democrats facing arrest upon returning home.​

​

“As soon as they come back in the state of Texas, they will be arrested, they will be cabined inside the Texas Capitol until they get their job done,” Abbott said.​

​

As they arrived in Washington Monday evening, the lawmakers said they would not be swayed.​

​

“We are determined to kill this bill,” said state Rep. Chris Turner, who said he and his colleagues were prepared to run out the clock on a special session that ends early next month.​

​

Democrats’ decision to hole up in Washington is aimed at ratcheting up pressure on President Joe Biden and Congress to act on voting at the federal level. Biden is set to deliver a major address on the issue Tuesday in Philadelphia, after facing growing criticism for taking what some on the left call too passive a role in the fight.​

​

“This is a now-or-never for our democracy. We are holding the line in Texas,” said Democratic state Rep. Trey Martinez Fischer. “We’ve left our jobs, we’ve left our families, we’ve left our homes. Because there is nothing more important than voting rights in America.”​

​

The Texas bills would outlawing 24-hour polling places, banning ballot drop boxes used to deposit mail ballots and empowering partisan poll watchers.​

The measures are part of the GOP’s rush to enact new voting restrictions in response to former President Donald Trump’s false claims that the 2020 election was stolen. More than a dozen states this year have already passed tougher election laws — but only in Texas have Democrats put up this kind of fight.​

The state has a history of attention-getting political tactics. Texas Democrats, shut out of power in the state Capitol for decades, last fled the state in 2003 to thwart a redistricting plan. They ultimately lost that fight.​

​

Turner noted this time the state lawmakers had dual goals. They called on Congress to pass the Democrat-backed, federal voting rights law prior to when they go on August recess, which is around the same time Texas’ special session will end. He said the group would meet with Democrats across Washington, but a White House official said there are no current plans for a White House visit.​

​

Turner said in order to pass the voting rights expansion law, the Senate may have to modify its procedural rules, but added, “I don’t really care how they do it.”​

Back in Texas, Republican House Speaker Dade Phelan promised to use “every available resource” to secure a quorum. He did not elaborate, but some House Republicans signaled they would take action when the chamber reconvenes Tuesday. When Democrats fled the state two decades ago state troopers were deployed to bring them back.​

​

In an interview with Austin television station KVUE, Abbott said he was prepared to keep calling special sessions though next year’s election.​

“If these people want to be hanging out, wherever they’re hanging out on this taxpayer-paid junket, they’re going to have to be prepared to do it for well over a year, he said.​

​

But it was not immediately clear who was footing the bill for the Democrats’ trip. Martinez Fischer said he would use his own campaign funds to pay for hotels for House members, but declined to comment on who funded the chartered flights.​

Speaking in the airport parking lot, he blasted the governor for likening the group, which includes many Black and Latino lawmakers, to “animal or property, to say he will corral us and he will cabin us in the capitol to get this agenda.” After addressing the media, Black lawmakers led the group in singing ”We Shall Overcome.”​

​

Over the weekend, Texas Republicans began advancing measures that also bring back provisions to ban drive-thru voting, add new voter ID requirements to absentee ballots and prohibit local elections officials from proactively sending mail-in ballot applications to voters. Abbott also gave lawmakers a lengthy to-do list this summer, heavy on hot-button conservative issues including restrictions over how race is taught in schools and banning transgender athletes from playing in girls’ sports.​

​

The decision to flee carries risks, and no guarantee of victory in the long run.​

Abbott, who is up for reelection in 2022 and has demanded new election laws in Texas, could keep calling 30-day special sessions until a bill is passed. He also punished Democrats after their May walkout by vetoing paychecks for roughly 2,000 Capitol employees, which will begin taking effect in September unless the Legislature is in session to restore the funding.​

​

Staying away for an extended time could also carry repercussions in next year’s midterm elections, although many Texas Democrats are already expecting a difficult cycle in 2022, particularly with Republicans set to begin drawing new voting maps this fall that could cement their majorities.​

For weeks, Democrats have signaled they were ready to draw a line. Adding to their anger: A Houston man who gained attention last year after waiting more than six hours to cast a ballot was arrested on illegal voting charges a day before the special session began Thursday. Attorneys for Hervis Rogers say the 62-year-old did not know that his being on parole for a felony burglary conviction meant he wasn’t allowed to vote.​

​

Vice President Kamala Harris applauded Texas Democrats for their “courage and commitment” before they boarded the flight. Back in Texas, Republican Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick signaled that he would still try to pass a voting bill as early as Tuesday in the Senate. It was unclear whether Democrats in that chamber would continue showing up.​

___​

Weissert reported from Sterling, Virginia.​

​

​

​

​

And you believe this is any different to voter fraud???
Do you believe it would not obstruct a free vote for those eligible?

The Texas bills would outlawing 24-hour polling places, banning ballot drop boxes used to deposit mail ballots and empowering partisan poll watchers.

The hypocrisy of you dickheads is mouth watering.

Speaking of hypocrisy, do you think those fleeing Dems needed an ID to get on the plane, or to check into their hotel?

 

[asaratis]

Even Texas Officials admit there was negligible Election/Voter Fraud. Record turn out. Huge voter numbers and Tex-Ass ReThugs engineer very restrictive voter suppression laws.

The only threat to American Democracy are Fascist ReThugs.

Fuch them.

To "admit" something does not make it "a fact". It could very well be "a lie".

 

[asaratis]

I thought this was hilarious

Texas Democrats leave state to try to stop GOP voting bill​

​

​

A private plane is readied for Democrats from the Texas Legislature as they arrive by bus to board and head to Washington, D.C., Monday, July 12, 2021, in Austin, Texas. By leaving, Democrats again deny the GOP majority a quorum to pass bills, barely a month after their walkout thwarted the first push for sweeping new voting restrictions in Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)​

​

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Democrats in the Texas Legislature bolted Monday for Washington, and said they were ready to remain there for weeks in a second revolt against a GOP overhaul of election laws, forcing a dramatic new showdown over voting rights in America.​

Private planes carrying more than 50 Democrats left Austin for Dulles International Airport midafternoon, skipping town just days before the Texas House of Representatives was expected to give early approval to sweeping new voting restrictions in a special legislative session. The numbers meant the House would not have enough lawmakers in attendance to conduct business and could not, at least for now, vote on the bill.​

​

The cross-country exodus was the second time that Democratic lawmakers have staged a walkout on the voting overhaul, a measure of their fierce opposition to proposals they say will make it harder for young people, people of color and people with disabilities to vote. But like last month’s effort, there remains no clear path for Democrats to permanently block the voting measures, or a list of other contentious GOP-backed proposals up for debate.​

Hours after they took off, Republican Gov. Greg Abbott told an Austin television station he would simply keep calling special sessions through next year if necessary, and raised the possibility of Democrats facing arrest upon returning home.​

​

“As soon as they come back in the state of Texas, they will be arrested, they will be cabined inside the Texas Capitol until they get their job done,” Abbott said.​

​

As they arrived in Washington Monday evening, the lawmakers said they would not be swayed.​

​

“We are determined to kill this bill,” said state Rep. Chris Turner, who said he and his colleagues were prepared to run out the clock on a special session that ends early next month.​

​

Democrats’ decision to hole up in Washington is aimed at ratcheting up pressure on President Joe Biden and Congress to act on voting at the federal level. Biden is set to deliver a major address on the issue Tuesday in Philadelphia, after facing growing criticism for taking what some on the left call too passive a role in the fight.​

​

“This is a now-or-never for our democracy. We are holding the line in Texas,” said Democratic state Rep. Trey Martinez Fischer. “We’ve left our jobs, we’ve left our families, we’ve left our homes. Because there is nothing more important than voting rights in America.”​

​

The Texas bills would outlawing 24-hour polling places, banning ballot drop boxes used to deposit mail ballots and empowering partisan poll watchers.​

The measures are part of the GOP’s rush to enact new voting restrictions in response to former President Donald Trump’s false claims that the 2020 election was stolen. More than a dozen states this year have already passed tougher election laws — but only in Texas have Democrats put up this kind of fight.​

The state has a history of attention-getting political tactics. Texas Democrats, shut out of power in the state Capitol for decades, last fled the state in 2003 to thwart a redistricting plan. They ultimately lost that fight.​

​

Turner noted this time the state lawmakers had dual goals. They called on Congress to pass the Democrat-backed, federal voting rights law prior to when they go on August recess, which is around the same time Texas’ special session will end. He said the group would meet with Democrats across Washington, but a White House official said there are no current plans for a White House visit.​

​

Turner said in order to pass the voting rights expansion law, the Senate may have to modify its procedural rules, but added, “I don’t really care how they do it.”​

Back in Texas, Republican House Speaker Dade Phelan promised to use “every available resource” to secure a quorum. He did not elaborate, but some House Republicans signaled they would take action when the chamber reconvenes Tuesday. When Democrats fled the state two decades ago state troopers were deployed to bring them back.​

​

In an interview with Austin television station KVUE, Abbott said he was prepared to keep calling special sessions though next year’s election.​

“If these people want to be hanging out, wherever they’re hanging out on this taxpayer-paid junket, they’re going to have to be prepared to do it for well over a year, he said.​

​

But it was not immediately clear who was footing the bill for the Democrats’ trip. Martinez Fischer said he would use his own campaign funds to pay for hotels for House members, but declined to comment on who funded the chartered flights.​

Speaking in the airport parking lot, he blasted the governor for likening the group, which includes many Black and Latino lawmakers, to “animal or property, to say he will corral us and he will cabin us in the capitol to get this agenda.” After addressing the media, Black lawmakers led the group in singing ”We Shall Overcome.”​

​

Over the weekend, Texas Republicans began advancing measures that also bring back provisions to ban drive-thru voting, add new voter ID requirements to absentee ballots and prohibit local elections officials from proactively sending mail-in ballot applications to voters. Abbott also gave lawmakers a lengthy to-do list this summer, heavy on hot-button conservative issues including restrictions over how race is taught in schools and banning transgender athletes from playing in girls’ sports.​

​

The decision to flee carries risks, and no guarantee of victory in the long run.​

Abbott, who is up for reelection in 2022 and has demanded new election laws in Texas, could keep calling 30-day special sessions until a bill is passed. He also punished Democrats after their May walkout by vetoing paychecks for roughly 2,000 Capitol employees, which will begin taking effect in September unless the Legislature is in session to restore the funding.​

​

Staying away for an extended time could also carry repercussions in next year’s midterm elections, although many Texas Democrats are already expecting a difficult cycle in 2022, particularly with Republicans set to begin drawing new voting maps this fall that could cement their majorities.​

For weeks, Democrats have signaled they were ready to draw a line. Adding to their anger: A Houston man who gained attention last year after waiting more than six hours to cast a ballot was arrested on illegal voting charges a day before the special session began Thursday. Attorneys for Hervis Rogers say the 62-year-old did not know that his being on parole for a felony burglary conviction meant he wasn’t allowed to vote.​

​

Vice President Kamala Harris applauded Texas Democrats for their “courage and commitment” before they boarded the flight. Back in Texas, Republican Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick signaled that he would still try to pass a voting bill as early as Tuesday in the Senate. It was unclear whether Democrats in that chamber would continue showing up.​

___​

Weissert reported from Sterling, Virginia.​

​

​

​

​

And you believe this is any different to voter fraud???
Do you believe it would not obstruct a free vote for those eligible?

The Texas bills would outlawing 24-hour polling places, banning ballot drop boxes used to deposit mail ballots and empowering partisan poll watchers.

The hypocrisy of you dickheads is mouth watering.

Speaking of hypocrisy, do you think those fleeing Dems needed an ID to get on the plane, or to check into their hotel?

...or to buy that Miller Lite?

 

[marvin martian]

I thought this was hilarious

Texas Democrats leave state to try to stop GOP voting bill​

​

​

A private plane is readied for Democrats from the Texas Legislature as they arrive by bus to board and head to Washington, D.C., Monday, July 12, 2021, in Austin, Texas. By leaving, Democrats again deny the GOP majority a quorum to pass bills, barely a month after their walkout thwarted the first push for sweeping new voting restrictions in Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)​

​

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Democrats in the Texas Legislature bolted Monday for Washington, and said they were ready to remain there for weeks in a second revolt against a GOP overhaul of election laws, forcing a dramatic new showdown over voting rights in America.​

Private planes carrying more than 50 Democrats left Austin for Dulles International Airport midafternoon, skipping town just days before the Texas House of Representatives was expected to give early approval to sweeping new voting restrictions in a special legislative session. The numbers meant the House would not have enough lawmakers in attendance to conduct business and could not, at least for now, vote on the bill.​

​

The cross-country exodus was the second time that Democratic lawmakers have staged a walkout on the voting overhaul, a measure of their fierce opposition to proposals they say will make it harder for young people, people of color and people with disabilities to vote. But like last month’s effort, there remains no clear path for Democrats to permanently block the voting measures, or a list of other contentious GOP-backed proposals up for debate.​

Hours after they took off, Republican Gov. Greg Abbott told an Austin television station he would simply keep calling special sessions through next year if necessary, and raised the possibility of Democrats facing arrest upon returning home.​

​

“As soon as they come back in the state of Texas, they will be arrested, they will be cabined inside the Texas Capitol until they get their job done,” Abbott said.​

​

As they arrived in Washington Monday evening, the lawmakers said they would not be swayed.​

​

“We are determined to kill this bill,” said state Rep. Chris Turner, who said he and his colleagues were prepared to run out the clock on a special session that ends early next month.​

​

Democrats’ decision to hole up in Washington is aimed at ratcheting up pressure on President Joe Biden and Congress to act on voting at the federal level. Biden is set to deliver a major address on the issue Tuesday in Philadelphia, after facing growing criticism for taking what some on the left call too passive a role in the fight.​

​

“This is a now-or-never for our democracy. We are holding the line in Texas,” said Democratic state Rep. Trey Martinez Fischer. “We’ve left our jobs, we’ve left our families, we’ve left our homes. Because there is nothing more important than voting rights in America.”​

​

The Texas bills would outlawing 24-hour polling places, banning ballot drop boxes used to deposit mail ballots and empowering partisan poll watchers.​

The measures are part of the GOP’s rush to enact new voting restrictions in response to former President Donald Trump’s false claims that the 2020 election was stolen. More than a dozen states this year have already passed tougher election laws — but only in Texas have Democrats put up this kind of fight.​

The state has a history of attention-getting political tactics. Texas Democrats, shut out of power in the state Capitol for decades, last fled the state in 2003 to thwart a redistricting plan. They ultimately lost that fight.​

​

Turner noted this time the state lawmakers had dual goals. They called on Congress to pass the Democrat-backed, federal voting rights law prior to when they go on August recess, which is around the same time Texas’ special session will end. He said the group would meet with Democrats across Washington, but a White House official said there are no current plans for a White House visit.​

​

Turner said in order to pass the voting rights expansion law, the Senate may have to modify its procedural rules, but added, “I don’t really care how they do it.”​

Back in Texas, Republican House Speaker Dade Phelan promised to use “every available resource” to secure a quorum. He did not elaborate, but some House Republicans signaled they would take action when the chamber reconvenes Tuesday. When Democrats fled the state two decades ago state troopers were deployed to bring them back.​

​

In an interview with Austin television station KVUE, Abbott said he was prepared to keep calling special sessions though next year’s election.​

“If these people want to be hanging out, wherever they’re hanging out on this taxpayer-paid junket, they’re going to have to be prepared to do it for well over a year, he said.​

​

But it was not immediately clear who was footing the bill for the Democrats’ trip. Martinez Fischer said he would use his own campaign funds to pay for hotels for House members, but declined to comment on who funded the chartered flights.​

Speaking in the airport parking lot, he blasted the governor for likening the group, which includes many Black and Latino lawmakers, to “animal or property, to say he will corral us and he will cabin us in the capitol to get this agenda.” After addressing the media, Black lawmakers led the group in singing ”We Shall Overcome.”​

​

Over the weekend, Texas Republicans began advancing measures that also bring back provisions to ban drive-thru voting, add new voter ID requirements to absentee ballots and prohibit local elections officials from proactively sending mail-in ballot applications to voters. Abbott also gave lawmakers a lengthy to-do list this summer, heavy on hot-button conservative issues including restrictions over how race is taught in schools and banning transgender athletes from playing in girls’ sports.​

​

The decision to flee carries risks, and no guarantee of victory in the long run.​

Abbott, who is up for reelection in 2022 and has demanded new election laws in Texas, could keep calling 30-day special sessions until a bill is passed. He also punished Democrats after their May walkout by vetoing paychecks for roughly 2,000 Capitol employees, which will begin taking effect in September unless the Legislature is in session to restore the funding.​

​

Staying away for an extended time could also carry repercussions in next year’s midterm elections, although many Texas Democrats are already expecting a difficult cycle in 2022, particularly with Republicans set to begin drawing new voting maps this fall that could cement their majorities.​

For weeks, Democrats have signaled they were ready to draw a line. Adding to their anger: A Houston man who gained attention last year after waiting more than six hours to cast a ballot was arrested on illegal voting charges a day before the special session began Thursday. Attorneys for Hervis Rogers say the 62-year-old did not know that his being on parole for a felony burglary conviction meant he wasn’t allowed to vote.​

​

Vice President Kamala Harris applauded Texas Democrats for their “courage and commitment” before they boarded the flight. Back in Texas, Republican Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick signaled that he would still try to pass a voting bill as early as Tuesday in the Senate. It was unclear whether Democrats in that chamber would continue showing up.​

___​

Weissert reported from Sterling, Virginia.​

​

​

​

​

And you believe this is any different to voter fraud???
Do you believe it would not obstruct a free vote for those eligible?

The Texas bills would outlawing 24-hour polling places, banning ballot drop boxes used to deposit mail ballots and empowering partisan poll watchers.

The hypocrisy of you dickheads is mouth watering.

Speaking of hypocrisy, do you think those fleeing Dems needed an ID to get on the plane, or to check into their hotel?

...or to buy that Miller Lite?

That was disappointing. With all the great local beer we have here in Texas, those rednecks picked that pisswater.

 

[bravoactual]

Oh fuck you!

You can not arrest someone without the other State permission you stupid fucking retard!

Are you an attorney ?

Are you?

Show me where Texas Law Enforcement has the authority to enter another State to make an arrest without the State permission?

You do know Texas Law Enforcement must notify the State and Local Authority about a possible arrest and the Local Authority must make the arrest and not Texas Law Enforcement!

Once a warrant is made you have no choice pecker head what ever state you flee too.

Oh there are all kinds of choices.

Without the power to arrest or detain, Tex-Ass Rumpers can sit around with thump up their collective ass.

No law was broken. D.C. can compel proof of unlawful activity.

Tex-Ass Rumpers cannot do a damn thing.

Except vote them out in droves come 22.

They are supposed to be representing their constituents.

They say democracy is under attack and then run like scalded dogs, circumventing democracy and not voting on laws they were elected to vote on just because they might lose. Take their ball and go home, that's what dems do.

Dems are funny.

Democracy is under attack when republicans trash the capitol.
Filibusters happen all the time but you never say a word when it suits you.

Remember this if it doesn't hurt. You say vote them out in 22.
If you didn't vote them in, you cannot vote them out. Think about it.

The same for democrats in DC.

Once again, the US is not a democracy

Here's a description from wiki. Notice is says democracy controlled by the people. I accept your ignorance apology.

A republic (Latin: res publica, meaning "public affair") is a form of government in which "power is held by the people and their elected representatives".[1] In republics, the country is considered a "public matter", not the private concern or property of the rulers. The primary positions of power within a republic are attained through democracy or a mix of democracy with oligarchy or autocracy rather than being unalterably occupied by any given family lineage or group.

wiki?

Once again the people of California took up a mob vote and said no to gay marriage

Yes that's right and it is still a democracy even if some ignoramus doesn't think so.

Definition of DEMOCRACY

government by the people; especially : rule of the majority; a government in which the supreme power is vested in the people and exercised by them directly or indirectly through a system of representation usually involving periodically held free elections… See the full definition

www.merriam-webster.com

Definition of REPUBLIC

a government having a chief of state who is not a monarch and who in modern times is usually a president; a political unit (such as a nation) having such a form of government… See the full definition

www.merriam-webster.com

Is the United States a Republic or a Democracy?

The United States of America is governed as a federal republic, and therefore some argue that the U.S. is not a democracy. Learn more about the government of the US.

www.worldatlas.com

The U.S. is first a Republic and also a Representative Democracy which should never be confused as pure Democracy.

Call it or define it with any words you want. The fact remains, a government installed by the people is a democracy.
Calling it a republic is the same.

I gave you the fucking definitions and a link on the differences, so it is your fucking choice you ignorant ass if you want to accept them or not but the U.S. is not the type of Democracy you claim it is, so stop trolling!

The U.S. is a Republic with a Representative Democracy and not a pure Democracy like you believe!

Little Colon likes to depend on wiki definitions. Wiki is an openly editable information source.

Well I would not know..........mainly because I do not use WiKi.

All you idiot dead from the neck up brain dead meat head Cons have is conjecture, contention, innuendo and suppositon. You have zero facts.

Over 60+law suits alleging Election/Voter Fraud were filed and they all.....repeat ALL fucking dismissed. You must.....repeat MUST have evidence of Election/Voter Fraud to support a charge of Election/Voter Fraud and you ain't got shit and you know you aint' got shit.

All you people have are ever changing Conspiracy Theories that no basis in reality.

You idiots would rather believe lies than accept the truth.

The Fucking Traitor Fucking Lost The Fucking Election.

 

[ClaireH]

States are looking to Texas to learn how to rid themselves of Democrats

Other States Look To Texas For Advice On How To Get Democrats To Leave

U.S.—In a brilliant move, Governor Greg Abbott has tricked dozens of Democrat legislators into leaving Texas. This is leading other governors across the country to ask Texas for advice on how they can get Democrats to leave their states as well.

babylonbee.com

Lol this part:

“According to reports, Texas is now a blissful and prosperous utopia, only 12 hours after Democrat lawmakers left in their private charter plane” lol gotta love the bee!

 

[airplanemechanic]

Oh fuck you!

You can not arrest someone without the other State permission you stupid fucking retard!

Are you an attorney ?

Are you?

Show me where Texas Law Enforcement has the authority to enter another State to make an arrest without the State permission?

You do know Texas Law Enforcement must notify the State and Local Authority about a possible arrest and the Local Authority must make the arrest and not Texas Law Enforcement!

Once a warrant is made you have no choice pecker head what ever state you flee too.

Oh there are all kinds of choices.

Without the power to arrest or detain, Tex-Ass Rumpers can sit around with thump up their collective ass.

No law was broken. D.C. can compel proof of unlawful activity.

Tex-Ass Rumpers cannot do a damn thing.

Except vote them out in droves come 22.

They are supposed to be representing their constituents.

They say democracy is under attack and then run like scalded dogs, circumventing democracy and not voting on laws they were elected to vote on just because they might lose. Take their ball and go home, that's what dems do.

Dems are funny.

Democracy is under attack when republicans trash the capitol.
Filibusters happen all the time but you never say a word when it suits you.

Remember this if it doesn't hurt. You say vote them out in 22.
If you didn't vote them in, you cannot vote them out. Think about it.

The same for democrats in DC.

What does dems in TX running away like children in July have to do with Jan 6th in DC?

 

[Carl in Michigan]

States are looking to Texas to learn how to rid themselves of Democrats

Other States Look To Texas For Advice On How To Get Democrats To Leave

U.S.—In a brilliant move, Governor Greg Abbott has tricked dozens of Democrat legislators into leaving Texas. This is leading other governors across the country to ask Texas for advice on how they can get Democrats to leave their states as well.

babylonbee.com

Lol this part:

“According to reports, Texas is now a blissful and prosperous utopia, only 12 hours after Democrat lawmakers left in their private charter plane” lol gotta love the bee!

No more whining in Texas at least

 

[lantern2814]

These felons are so serious about this that they flew maskless, drank beer on the bus, and jump in front of every camera they see to sing “we shall overcome”. Just do what Walker did when the cowardly Dems fled that state. Withhold their pay. Put their checks in their desk in the chambers. No family members allowed to get them. No direct deposit. And charge anybody giving them money with aiding and abetting felons.

 

[Colin norris]

I thought this was hilarious

Texas Democrats leave state to try to stop GOP voting bill​

​

​

A private plane is readied for Democrats from the Texas Legislature as they arrive by bus to board and head to Washington, D.C., Monday, July 12, 2021, in Austin, Texas. By leaving, Democrats again deny the GOP majority a quorum to pass bills, barely a month after their walkout thwarted the first push for sweeping new voting restrictions in Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)​

​

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Democrats in the Texas Legislature bolted Monday for Washington, and said they were ready to remain there for weeks in a second revolt against a GOP overhaul of election laws, forcing a dramatic new showdown over voting rights in America.​

Private planes carrying more than 50 Democrats left Austin for Dulles International Airport midafternoon, skipping town just days before the Texas House of Representatives was expected to give early approval to sweeping new voting restrictions in a special legislative session. The numbers meant the House would not have enough lawmakers in attendance to conduct business and could not, at least for now, vote on the bill.​

​

The cross-country exodus was the second time that Democratic lawmakers have staged a walkout on the voting overhaul, a measure of their fierce opposition to proposals they say will make it harder for young people, people of color and people with disabilities to vote. But like last month’s effort, there remains no clear path for Democrats to permanently block the voting measures, or a list of other contentious GOP-backed proposals up for debate.​

Hours after they took off, Republican Gov. Greg Abbott told an Austin television station he would simply keep calling special sessions through next year if necessary, and raised the possibility of Democrats facing arrest upon returning home.​

​

“As soon as they come back in the state of Texas, they will be arrested, they will be cabined inside the Texas Capitol until they get their job done,” Abbott said.​

​

As they arrived in Washington Monday evening, the lawmakers said they would not be swayed.​

​

“We are determined to kill this bill,” said state Rep. Chris Turner, who said he and his colleagues were prepared to run out the clock on a special session that ends early next month.​

​

Democrats’ decision to hole up in Washington is aimed at ratcheting up pressure on President Joe Biden and Congress to act on voting at the federal level. Biden is set to deliver a major address on the issue Tuesday in Philadelphia, after facing growing criticism for taking what some on the left call too passive a role in the fight.​

​

“This is a now-or-never for our democracy. We are holding the line in Texas,” said Democratic state Rep. Trey Martinez Fischer. “We’ve left our jobs, we’ve left our families, we’ve left our homes. Because there is nothing more important than voting rights in America.”​

​

The Texas bills would outlawing 24-hour polling places, banning ballot drop boxes used to deposit mail ballots and empowering partisan poll watchers.​

The measures are part of the GOP’s rush to enact new voting restrictions in response to former President Donald Trump’s false claims that the 2020 election was stolen. More than a dozen states this year have already passed tougher election laws — but only in Texas have Democrats put up this kind of fight.​

The state has a history of attention-getting political tactics. Texas Democrats, shut out of power in the state Capitol for decades, last fled the state in 2003 to thwart a redistricting plan. They ultimately lost that fight.​

​

Turner noted this time the state lawmakers had dual goals. They called on Congress to pass the Democrat-backed, federal voting rights law prior to when they go on August recess, which is around the same time Texas’ special session will end. He said the group would meet with Democrats across Washington, but a White House official said there are no current plans for a White House visit.​

​

Turner said in order to pass the voting rights expansion law, the Senate may have to modify its procedural rules, but added, “I don’t really care how they do it.”​

Back in Texas, Republican House Speaker Dade Phelan promised to use “every available resource” to secure a quorum. He did not elaborate, but some House Republicans signaled they would take action when the chamber reconvenes Tuesday. When Democrats fled the state two decades ago state troopers were deployed to bring them back.​

​

In an interview with Austin television station KVUE, Abbott said he was prepared to keep calling special sessions though next year’s election.​

“If these people want to be hanging out, wherever they’re hanging out on this taxpayer-paid junket, they’re going to have to be prepared to do it for well over a year, he said.​

​

But it was not immediately clear who was footing the bill for the Democrats’ trip. Martinez Fischer said he would use his own campaign funds to pay for hotels for House members, but declined to comment on who funded the chartered flights.​

Speaking in the airport parking lot, he blasted the governor for likening the group, which includes many Black and Latino lawmakers, to “animal or property, to say he will corral us and he will cabin us in the capitol to get this agenda.” After addressing the media, Black lawmakers led the group in singing ”We Shall Overcome.”​

​

Over the weekend, Texas Republicans began advancing measures that also bring back provisions to ban drive-thru voting, add new voter ID requirements to absentee ballots and prohibit local elections officials from proactively sending mail-in ballot applications to voters. Abbott also gave lawmakers a lengthy to-do list this summer, heavy on hot-button conservative issues including restrictions over how race is taught in schools and banning transgender athletes from playing in girls’ sports.​

​

The decision to flee carries risks, and no guarantee of victory in the long run.​

Abbott, who is up for reelection in 2022 and has demanded new election laws in Texas, could keep calling 30-day special sessions until a bill is passed. He also punished Democrats after their May walkout by vetoing paychecks for roughly 2,000 Capitol employees, which will begin taking effect in September unless the Legislature is in session to restore the funding.​

​

Staying away for an extended time could also carry repercussions in next year’s midterm elections, although many Texas Democrats are already expecting a difficult cycle in 2022, particularly with Republicans set to begin drawing new voting maps this fall that could cement their majorities.​

For weeks, Democrats have signaled they were ready to draw a line. Adding to their anger: A Houston man who gained attention last year after waiting more than six hours to cast a ballot was arrested on illegal voting charges a day before the special session began Thursday. Attorneys for Hervis Rogers say the 62-year-old did not know that his being on parole for a felony burglary conviction meant he wasn’t allowed to vote.​

​

Vice President Kamala Harris applauded Texas Democrats for their “courage and commitment” before they boarded the flight. Back in Texas, Republican Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick signaled that he would still try to pass a voting bill as early as Tuesday in the Senate. It was unclear whether Democrats in that chamber would continue showing up.​

___​

Weissert reported from Sterling, Virginia.​

​

​

​

​

And you believe this is any different to voter fraud???
Do you believe it would not obstruct a free vote for those eligible?

The Texas bills would outlawing 24-hour polling places, banning ballot drop boxes used to deposit mail ballots and empowering partisan poll watchers.

The hypocrisy of you dickheads is mouth watering.

Speaking of hypocrisy, do you think those fleeing Dems needed an ID to get on the plane, or to check into their hotel?

No. Why should they?

 

[marvin martian]

I thought this was hilarious

Texas Democrats leave state to try to stop GOP voting bill​

​

​

A private plane is readied for Democrats from the Texas Legislature as they arrive by bus to board and head to Washington, D.C., Monday, July 12, 2021, in Austin, Texas. By leaving, Democrats again deny the GOP majority a quorum to pass bills, barely a month after their walkout thwarted the first push for sweeping new voting restrictions in Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)​

​

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Democrats in the Texas Legislature bolted Monday for Washington, and said they were ready to remain there for weeks in a second revolt against a GOP overhaul of election laws, forcing a dramatic new showdown over voting rights in America.​

Private planes carrying more than 50 Democrats left Austin for Dulles International Airport midafternoon, skipping town just days before the Texas House of Representatives was expected to give early approval to sweeping new voting restrictions in a special legislative session. The numbers meant the House would not have enough lawmakers in attendance to conduct business and could not, at least for now, vote on the bill.​

​

The cross-country exodus was the second time that Democratic lawmakers have staged a walkout on the voting overhaul, a measure of their fierce opposition to proposals they say will make it harder for young people, people of color and people with disabilities to vote. But like last month’s effort, there remains no clear path for Democrats to permanently block the voting measures, or a list of other contentious GOP-backed proposals up for debate.​

Hours after they took off, Republican Gov. Greg Abbott told an Austin television station he would simply keep calling special sessions through next year if necessary, and raised the possibility of Democrats facing arrest upon returning home.​

​

“As soon as they come back in the state of Texas, they will be arrested, they will be cabined inside the Texas Capitol until they get their job done,” Abbott said.​

​

As they arrived in Washington Monday evening, the lawmakers said they would not be swayed.​

​

“We are determined to kill this bill,” said state Rep. Chris Turner, who said he and his colleagues were prepared to run out the clock on a special session that ends early next month.​

​

Democrats’ decision to hole up in Washington is aimed at ratcheting up pressure on President Joe Biden and Congress to act on voting at the federal level. Biden is set to deliver a major address on the issue Tuesday in Philadelphia, after facing growing criticism for taking what some on the left call too passive a role in the fight.​

​

“This is a now-or-never for our democracy. We are holding the line in Texas,” said Democratic state Rep. Trey Martinez Fischer. “We’ve left our jobs, we’ve left our families, we’ve left our homes. Because there is nothing more important than voting rights in America.”​

​

The Texas bills would outlawing 24-hour polling places, banning ballot drop boxes used to deposit mail ballots and empowering partisan poll watchers.​

The measures are part of the GOP’s rush to enact new voting restrictions in response to former President Donald Trump’s false claims that the 2020 election was stolen. More than a dozen states this year have already passed tougher election laws — but only in Texas have Democrats put up this kind of fight.​

The state has a history of attention-getting political tactics. Texas Democrats, shut out of power in the state Capitol for decades, last fled the state in 2003 to thwart a redistricting plan. They ultimately lost that fight.​

​

Turner noted this time the state lawmakers had dual goals. They called on Congress to pass the Democrat-backed, federal voting rights law prior to when they go on August recess, which is around the same time Texas’ special session will end. He said the group would meet with Democrats across Washington, but a White House official said there are no current plans for a White House visit.​

​

Turner said in order to pass the voting rights expansion law, the Senate may have to modify its procedural rules, but added, “I don’t really care how they do it.”​

Back in Texas, Republican House Speaker Dade Phelan promised to use “every available resource” to secure a quorum. He did not elaborate, but some House Republicans signaled they would take action when the chamber reconvenes Tuesday. When Democrats fled the state two decades ago state troopers were deployed to bring them back.​

​

In an interview with Austin television station KVUE, Abbott said he was prepared to keep calling special sessions though next year’s election.​

“If these people want to be hanging out, wherever they’re hanging out on this taxpayer-paid junket, they’re going to have to be prepared to do it for well over a year, he said.​

​

But it was not immediately clear who was footing the bill for the Democrats’ trip. Martinez Fischer said he would use his own campaign funds to pay for hotels for House members, but declined to comment on who funded the chartered flights.​

Speaking in the airport parking lot, he blasted the governor for likening the group, which includes many Black and Latino lawmakers, to “animal or property, to say he will corral us and he will cabin us in the capitol to get this agenda.” After addressing the media, Black lawmakers led the group in singing ”We Shall Overcome.”​

​

Over the weekend, Texas Republicans began advancing measures that also bring back provisions to ban drive-thru voting, add new voter ID requirements to absentee ballots and prohibit local elections officials from proactively sending mail-in ballot applications to voters. Abbott also gave lawmakers a lengthy to-do list this summer, heavy on hot-button conservative issues including restrictions over how race is taught in schools and banning transgender athletes from playing in girls’ sports.​

​

The decision to flee carries risks, and no guarantee of victory in the long run.​

Abbott, who is up for reelection in 2022 and has demanded new election laws in Texas, could keep calling 30-day special sessions until a bill is passed. He also punished Democrats after their May walkout by vetoing paychecks for roughly 2,000 Capitol employees, which will begin taking effect in September unless the Legislature is in session to restore the funding.​

​

Staying away for an extended time could also carry repercussions in next year’s midterm elections, although many Texas Democrats are already expecting a difficult cycle in 2022, particularly with Republicans set to begin drawing new voting maps this fall that could cement their majorities.​

For weeks, Democrats have signaled they were ready to draw a line. Adding to their anger: A Houston man who gained attention last year after waiting more than six hours to cast a ballot was arrested on illegal voting charges a day before the special session began Thursday. Attorneys for Hervis Rogers say the 62-year-old did not know that his being on parole for a felony burglary conviction meant he wasn’t allowed to vote.​

​

Vice President Kamala Harris applauded Texas Democrats for their “courage and commitment” before they boarded the flight. Back in Texas, Republican Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick signaled that he would still try to pass a voting bill as early as Tuesday in the Senate. It was unclear whether Democrats in that chamber would continue showing up.​

___​

Weissert reported from Sterling, Virginia.​

​

​

​

​

And you believe this is any different to voter fraud???
Do you believe it would not obstruct a free vote for those eligible?

The Texas bills would outlawing 24-hour polling places, banning ballot drop boxes used to deposit mail ballots and empowering partisan poll watchers.

The hypocrisy of you dickheads is mouth watering.

Speaking of hypocrisy, do you think those fleeing Dems needed an ID to get on the plane, or to check into their hotel?

No. Why should they?

You don't think IDs are required to fly or check in to a hotel? LOL! How old are you?

 

[Colin norris]

I thought this was hilarious

Texas Democrats leave state to try to stop GOP voting bill​

​

​

A private plane is readied for Democrats from the Texas Legislature as they arrive by bus to board and head to Washington, D.C., Monday, July 12, 2021, in Austin, Texas. By leaving, Democrats again deny the GOP majority a quorum to pass bills, barely a month after their walkout thwarted the first push for sweeping new voting restrictions in Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)​

​

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Democrats in the Texas Legislature bolted Monday for Washington, and said they were ready to remain there for weeks in a second revolt against a GOP overhaul of election laws, forcing a dramatic new showdown over voting rights in America.​

Private planes carrying more than 50 Democrats left Austin for Dulles International Airport midafternoon, skipping town just days before the Texas House of Representatives was expected to give early approval to sweeping new voting restrictions in a special legislative session. The numbers meant the House would not have enough lawmakers in attendance to conduct business and could not, at least for now, vote on the bill.​

​

The cross-country exodus was the second time that Democratic lawmakers have staged a walkout on the voting overhaul, a measure of their fierce opposition to proposals they say will make it harder for young people, people of color and people with disabilities to vote. But like last month’s effort, there remains no clear path for Democrats to permanently block the voting measures, or a list of other contentious GOP-backed proposals up for debate.​

Hours after they took off, Republican Gov. Greg Abbott told an Austin television station he would simply keep calling special sessions through next year if necessary, and raised the possibility of Democrats facing arrest upon returning home.​

​

“As soon as they come back in the state of Texas, they will be arrested, they will be cabined inside the Texas Capitol until they get their job done,” Abbott said.​

​

As they arrived in Washington Monday evening, the lawmakers said they would not be swayed.​

​

“We are determined to kill this bill,” said state Rep. Chris Turner, who said he and his colleagues were prepared to run out the clock on a special session that ends early next month.​

​

Democrats’ decision to hole up in Washington is aimed at ratcheting up pressure on President Joe Biden and Congress to act on voting at the federal level. Biden is set to deliver a major address on the issue Tuesday in Philadelphia, after facing growing criticism for taking what some on the left call too passive a role in the fight.​

​

“This is a now-or-never for our democracy. We are holding the line in Texas,” said Democratic state Rep. Trey Martinez Fischer. “We’ve left our jobs, we’ve left our families, we’ve left our homes. Because there is nothing more important than voting rights in America.”​

​

The Texas bills would outlawing 24-hour polling places, banning ballot drop boxes used to deposit mail ballots and empowering partisan poll watchers.​

The measures are part of the GOP’s rush to enact new voting restrictions in response to former President Donald Trump’s false claims that the 2020 election was stolen. More than a dozen states this year have already passed tougher election laws — but only in Texas have Democrats put up this kind of fight.​

The state has a history of attention-getting political tactics. Texas Democrats, shut out of power in the state Capitol for decades, last fled the state in 2003 to thwart a redistricting plan. They ultimately lost that fight.​

​

Turner noted this time the state lawmakers had dual goals. They called on Congress to pass the Democrat-backed, federal voting rights law prior to when they go on August recess, which is around the same time Texas’ special session will end. He said the group would meet with Democrats across Washington, but a White House official said there are no current plans for a White House visit.​

​

Turner said in order to pass the voting rights expansion law, the Senate may have to modify its procedural rules, but added, “I don’t really care how they do it.”​

Back in Texas, Republican House Speaker Dade Phelan promised to use “every available resource” to secure a quorum. He did not elaborate, but some House Republicans signaled they would take action when the chamber reconvenes Tuesday. When Democrats fled the state two decades ago state troopers were deployed to bring them back.​

​

In an interview with Austin television station KVUE, Abbott said he was prepared to keep calling special sessions though next year’s election.​

“If these people want to be hanging out, wherever they’re hanging out on this taxpayer-paid junket, they’re going to have to be prepared to do it for well over a year, he said.​

​

But it was not immediately clear who was footing the bill for the Democrats’ trip. Martinez Fischer said he would use his own campaign funds to pay for hotels for House members, but declined to comment on who funded the chartered flights.​

Speaking in the airport parking lot, he blasted the governor for likening the group, which includes many Black and Latino lawmakers, to “animal or property, to say he will corral us and he will cabin us in the capitol to get this agenda.” After addressing the media, Black lawmakers led the group in singing ”We Shall Overcome.”​

​

Over the weekend, Texas Republicans began advancing measures that also bring back provisions to ban drive-thru voting, add new voter ID requirements to absentee ballots and prohibit local elections officials from proactively sending mail-in ballot applications to voters. Abbott also gave lawmakers a lengthy to-do list this summer, heavy on hot-button conservative issues including restrictions over how race is taught in schools and banning transgender athletes from playing in girls’ sports.​

​

The decision to flee carries risks, and no guarantee of victory in the long run.​

Abbott, who is up for reelection in 2022 and has demanded new election laws in Texas, could keep calling 30-day special sessions until a bill is passed. He also punished Democrats after their May walkout by vetoing paychecks for roughly 2,000 Capitol employees, which will begin taking effect in September unless the Legislature is in session to restore the funding.​

​

Staying away for an extended time could also carry repercussions in next year’s midterm elections, although many Texas Democrats are already expecting a difficult cycle in 2022, particularly with Republicans set to begin drawing new voting maps this fall that could cement their majorities.​

For weeks, Democrats have signaled they were ready to draw a line. Adding to their anger: A Houston man who gained attention last year after waiting more than six hours to cast a ballot was arrested on illegal voting charges a day before the special session began Thursday. Attorneys for Hervis Rogers say the 62-year-old did not know that his being on parole for a felony burglary conviction meant he wasn’t allowed to vote.​

​

Vice President Kamala Harris applauded Texas Democrats for their “courage and commitment” before they boarded the flight. Back in Texas, Republican Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick signaled that he would still try to pass a voting bill as early as Tuesday in the Senate. It was unclear whether Democrats in that chamber would continue showing up.​

___​

Weissert reported from Sterling, Virginia.​

​

​

​

​

And you believe this is any different to voter fraud???
Do you believe it would not obstruct a free vote for those eligible?

The Texas bills would outlawing 24-hour polling places, banning ballot drop boxes used to deposit mail ballots and empowering partisan poll watchers.

The hypocrisy of you dickheads is mouth watering.

Speaking of hypocrisy, do you think those fleeing Dems needed an ID to get on the plane, or to check into their hotel?

No. Why should they?

You don't think IDs are required to fly or check in to a hotel? LOL! How old are you?

How is that relevant to the original debate?
Who cares how they left town?
I don't. Why would it worry you about their IDs? It doesn't matter.