In a high-profile interview on Fox News’s Hannity Tuesday night, Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick (R) fiercely defended the Republican-led redistricting effort, arguing that the party’s plans to redraw the state’s congressional map are not only fair but overdue.
“We’re a red state. We deserve more representation,” Patrick told host Sean Hannity, emphasizing his belief that Texas’s political makeup warrants a stronger Republican presence in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Patrick’s comments come amid intensifying political tensions in Texas, where Democrats have once again fled the state in an attempt to block passage of a controversial redistricting bill. The proposed map—advanced last week by a Texas House committee—could potentially give Republicans five additional congressional seats in the 2026 midterm elections. Critics say the proposal dilutes minority voting power and unfairly consolidates Republican strength, while supporters like Patrick argue it merely reflects the will of a conservative electorate.
A Red State Showdown
Patrick did not mince words in criticizing Texas Democrats, accusing them of abandoning their responsibilities and misreading the political landscape.
“I challenge them: Come back and do the right thing. Don’t run and hide because you’ve lost touch with the voters,” Patrick said. “Their problem isn’t redistricting lines. Their problem, Sean, is they’ve lost the minds of their voters, who are moving toward the Republican Party all over the country.”
This isn’t the first time Texas Democrats have taken dramatic action to block a Republican-backed bill. In 2021, Democratic lawmakers also fled the state to halt GOP efforts to pass a controversial voting law—an episode that drew national headlines and scrutiny.
In response to the current walkout, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) has called for the arrest of the absent lawmakers and ordered the Texas Rangers to investigate whether any violations of state law, including bribery, may have occurred.
GOP Determined to Push Forward
Despite the political standoff, Patrick made it clear that the redistricting effort will continue in the Texas Senate, where Republicans still have the quorum necessary to conduct legislative business.
“We’re going to pass out redistricting next week,” he said. “We’re going to move it forward and, working with the Speaker … we’re either going to do it now, in August, in September, or in October. Whatever it takes, Sean, whatever it takes, we’re going to get it done.”
Patrick’s remarks reflect a broader Republican sentiment that redistricting is a political necessity—one that aligns with Texas's rightward trajectory over the last several election cycles. Although Democrats have gained ground in urban and suburban areas, Republicans maintain control of all statewide offices and dominate both chambers of the legislature.
National GOP Weighs In
U.S. Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) has urged the FBI to investigate the fleeing lawmakers and consider compelling their return, a rare federal intervention in a state political matter. Former President Donald Trump, in remarks to reporters on Tuesday, echoed Patrick’s sentiments, stating that Republicans are “entitled” to the five new House seats based on voter support.
Democrats, meanwhile, argue that the proposed redistricting map is an extreme example of partisan gerrymandering. “This isn’t about representation—it’s about power,” said one anonymous Democratic lawmaker in an interview before leaving the state. “Texans of all backgrounds deserve fair maps that reflect their communities, not just party loyalty.”
What’s Next?
The showdown is expected to continue into the coming weeks, with legal challenges and public protests likely if the maps are approved without Democratic participation. National voting rights organizations are already monitoring the situation closely, with several hinting at possible lawsuits.
For now, Republicans appear undeterred.
“There’s nothing they can do to stop us,” Patrick said. “We’ve got the votes. We’ve got the momentum. And most importantly, we’ve got the people behind us.”
