Texas Democratic Rep. Nicole Collier left a call with Gov. Gavin Newsom after claiming felony concerns.
She participated from a Capitol bathroom while lawmakers debated a Trump-backed redistricting bill in session.
Collier warned the bill violates the Voting Rights Act by limiting minority voters’ candidate choices.
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Texas Drama: Sudden Exit Sparks Reactions
About 30 minutes in, Collier interrupted, saying officials told her participating from there was felony conduct.
She told colleagues she was restricted to the bathroom before abruptly ending the call with “Bye.”
Sen. Cory Booker and Gov. Newsom immediately condemned the situation, calling it outrageous and undemocratic.
Democratic Leaders Show Support
Booker asserted Collier displayed more dignity in a bathroom than Trump did in the Oval Office.
He and Newsom criticized Texas authorities for silencing a Black woman exercising her political rights.
They argued Republicans were deliberately undermining democratic voices and intimidating legislators who opposed redistricting efforts.
Background on Texas Dispute
Earlier, dozens of Democrats fled Texas to block quorum on the controversial redistricting bill.
Gov. Greg Abbott ordered their arrest and threatened removal if they refused returning to legislative duties.
Upon return, lawmakers faced heavy surveillance, including officers monitoring movements and enforcing restrictive permission slips.
California’s Countermove
Despite Democrats’ resistance, the House passed its redistricting maps later that week.
In response, Newsom advanced California’s own redistricting plan to offset Republican gains.
California Democrats unveiled maps potentially eliminating five GOP seats, countering Republicans’ congressional advantage.
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