Texas Democrats Rally Nationwide Against GOP Redistricting Push

This week marks 60 years since the landmark Voting Rights Act of 1965 was signed into law. Designed to combat racial discrimination in voting practices, the law aimed to uphold the 14th and 15th Amendments. But today, some leaders say those same rights are once again under attack.

Texas Democrats are making headlines after fleeing their state to block a Republican redistricting effort ahead of the 2026 midterms. Senator Carol Alvarado, joined by colleagues and allies, spoke from Boston: “What is happening in Texas isn't just a state injustice—it is a national alarm bell.”

The group’s departure has left the Texas chamber without a quorum, effectively halting a GOP-led push to redraw five districts in favor of Republican candidates.

Former New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu acknowledged the controversy but defended the legality of redistricting, saying, “Sometimes you're in the majority, and sometimes you're not.”

Senator Borris Miles of Texas issued a broader warning: “After Texas, it will be your state. After your state, it will be this entire country.”

Missouri State Senate Minority Leader Doug Beck echoed that sentiment: “If this fight is lost in Texas, they're coming to Missouri next. Our governor has already said that.”

Former U.S. Representative Beto O'Rourke has been helping raise funds to support the Texas lawmakers. “Those 56 Texas Democrats are all that stand between free and fair elections and what we’re facing now,” he said.

Meanwhile, Texas Governor Greg Abbott is moving to have the State Supreme Court strip one key Democrat of their seat. President Donald Trump, speaking Tuesday, suggested federal involvement could be next: “Should the FBI get involved? They may have to.”

Senator Alvarado closed with a message to voters nationwide: “We're here to say that Texas will not go quietly into the night, and neither should you.”

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.