More than 50 Texas House Democrats left the state on 3/8 to prevent the Republican-led legislature from voting on a proposed redrawing of the state's electoral districts. If passed, the new map is expected to give Republicans a significant advantage, potentially adding five seats to their US House delegation in the 2026 midterm elections.

Republicans hold a majority in the Texas House, but they lack the two-thirds quorum needed to conduct official business without the Democrats present.

Led by Texas House Democratic Caucus Chair Gene Wu, most of the Democrats traveled to Illinois, while others went to Massachusetts or New York – all states with Democratic governors. After days in hotels, they face increasing financial pressure.

Wu stated that the caucus's budget initially covered the hotel bills. However, they are now relying on donations to sustain their efforts, which could last for weeks or even months.

"We're receiving a lot of small donations, and that's what's going to keep this fight going," Wu said.

Texas House Democratic Caucus Chair Gene Wu speaks in Illinois on 4/8. *Photo: AFP*

Besides thousands of USD in lodging and meal expenses, the Democrats also face a $500 daily fine for missing legislative work. Texas House rules prohibit using office budgets or campaign funds to pay these fines.

Texas legislators work part-time, earning a $600 monthly salary plus a $221 per diem while the legislature is in session.

The Democrats plan to stay out of state until the current 30-day special session, called by Republican Governor Greg Abbott on 21/7, ends on 19/8. However, Abbott could call another special session, prolonging the standoff.

Texas state Senator Jose Menendez noted that the daily fine is nearly equivalent to their entire monthly salary. Menendez joined the House Democrats at a rally in Boston, Massachusetts on 6/8.

"They need your prayers, they need your concern, they need you to stand with them," Menendez told supporters.

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker welcomed the Democrats but stated he would not provide financial assistance, a decision that Texas Representative James Talarico said aligned with their wishes.

"We've gotten donations from across Texas, across the country, from everyday people chipping in $5, $10, $15," Talarico said. "That makes sense, because this fight is for the people, and it should be funded by the people. We don't have billionaires funding our efforts."

The political organization Powered by People confirmed it had contributed to the Texas House Democrats' initial expenses, but did not disclose the amount.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, a Republican, announced an investigation on 6/8 into whether Powered by People's support constituted bribery. Beto O'Rourke, who leads Powered by People, remained defiant, suggesting the investigation could be "turned into an opportunity" for fundraising.

The Texas House Democratic Caucus set up a website soliciting donations ranging from $25 to $2,500, with a default amount of $250.

Earlier this week, Governor Abbott asked the Texas Supreme Court to order Wu's removal from office and requested a state investigation into alleged corruption related to the Democrats' expenses. He warned that anyone providing financial support could be considered an accomplice.

Wu called the bribery allegations "utterly absurd." "No member left the state because they might receive a donation to somewhat offset the money they are spending," he said.

Before the walkout, Wu said he had contacted allies to ensure "there are resources to support us where we are going." He compared the situation to a potential candidate seeking support before launching a campaign.

Texas House Democrats at a rally outside the Massachusetts State House in Boston on 6/8. *Photo: Reuters*

Luke Warford, founder of the Agave Democratic Infrastructure Fund, a Democratic fundraising organization in Texas, reassured the Democrats about their financial concerns. He emphasized that long-term donors understand the high cost of competing in the 2026 US House races if Republicans successfully redraw the electoral map.

Texas Representative John Bucy expressed his lack of concern about who ultimately pays the bills.

"There's too much at stake to worry about that," Bucy said. "A hotel bill is nothing compared to what we are trying to accomplish, which is protecting democracy."

Nhu Tam (*Via AP*)