‘End game is to kill the maps’: Texas state Democrat on redistricting fight

Redistricting and Political Conflict - Texas Democrats left the state to prevent the passage of redistricting maps they consider a "power grab" and "Trump maps" [4] - The endgame for the Texas Democrats is to "kill the maps," referring to the redistricting plans [5] - Governor Abbott is accused of withholding flood relief in exchange for support of his maps [8] - The Texas governor's office is accused of dereliction of duty regarding flood safety, referencing a river authority's refusal to spend $1 million (3.4%) of $4 million reserves on a flood warning system [9] - Democratic governors are considering similar redistricting tactics in their states in response to Texas, creating an "arms race" [12] - Texas Republicans are accused of trying to achieve five more Republican members through redistricting that harms black and brown communities [15] - The redistricting plan eliminates a Latino district in Austin and removes a Latino opportunity district in Houston [15] - Some believe the redistricting maps are designed to predetermine the outcome of the 2026 midterms in favor of Republican control [17] Legal and Ethical Concerns - The redistricting plan is described as potentially illegal and unlawful, reminiscent of past DOJ concerns [16] - The core issue is framed as voters choosing their leaders, not the other way around [13]