FBI to assist Texas authorities in tracking down Democrat representatives
News | By Easton Martin | August 7, 2025
The FBI is now assisting Texas authorities in locating more than 50 state House Democrats who fled the state earlier this week to block a Republican-backed redistricting bill.
The lawmakers left to prevent a quorum, effectively halting the legislative process. Most are believed to be in Illinois, New York, and other Democratic-led states.
On Monday, U.S. Senator John Cornyn requested federal help, arguing that the lawmakers may have used campaign funds to facilitate their departure, potentially raising issues of public corruption.
By Wednesday, FBI Director Kash Patel approved the request and authorized agents to assist in locating the lawmakers who left Texas jurisdiction.
While Texas Governor Greg Abbott and state officials have issued civil arrest warrants, those cannot be enforced outside the state. With FBI involvement, the effort to pressure the lawmakers to return has expanded across state lines.
