In Texas, a peculiar incident unfolded as Democratic Rep. Nicole Collier abandoned a call with prominent party figures Gov. Gavin Newsom, DNC Chair Ken Martin, and Sen. Cory Booker. The abrupt exit happened after she received a warning that participating from a state Capitol bathroom constituted a felony. This situation quickly drew condemnation from Booker and Newsom, who characterized it as an effort to silence a Black woman leader.
The backstory involves state Democrats attempting to thwart GOP-led redistricting efforts. They had fled the Capitol earlier in a bid to break the quorum needed to vote on a controversial new voting map. Despite these dramatic theatrics, the Texas House passed the redistricting plan, poised to reshape election dynamics in the state. Rep. Collier argued that the new map would undermine the ability of Black and Brown constituents to select representatives. She described the mapping process as “cracking and packing” districts.
However, Collier’s remarks were cut short when she stated, “Sorry, I have to leave. They said it’s a felony for me to do this.” Her hurried retreat was marked by confusion as she tried to clarify the restriction: “You told me I was only allowed to be here in the bathroom… No, hang on. Bye, everybody. I’ve got to go.” This chaotic exit emphasized the unusual circumstances facing lawmakers in Texas.
Sen. Cory Booker responded sharply, labeling the situation “outrageous.” He asserted that “Rep. Collier in the bathroom has more dignity than Donald Trump in the Oval Office,” further claiming that the prohibition against her participation reflected an attempt to silence an American leader based on race. “What we just witnessed… this is the lengths that they’re going to in Texas,” he remarked, highlighting the tension surrounding the redistricting debate.
As the redistricting map progressed through the legislative process, former President Trump expressed his approval on social media, praising Texas Republicans for advancing a plan that could significantly benefit their party’s seat count in Congress. He expressed gratitude toward key Texas leaders for their efforts, framing it as a victory for Republican initiatives.
This incident, rife with political theatrics and tension, illustrates the contentious environment in Texas politics around redistricting and the lengths lawmakers will go to stand their ground.
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