Staff Reports
In the latest episode of political theater, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has filed a lawsuit against state Democrats. This comes after some of these lawmakers seemed to think they could just not show up for work and still get paid. Paxton, fed up with this playground game of “we’re not playing by your rules,” is asking the Supreme Court to declare these absentee legislators have vacated their offices due to negligence. It seems that skipping your responsibilities now comes with real consequences, or at least that’s what Paxton hopes the courts will establish.
Joining the conversation is the host of a conservative show, who didn’t hold back on describing the antics as a dereliction of duty. No matter how loudly some of these politicians claim they aren’t running away, the reality proves otherwise. They have an obligation as elected officials to be part of the legislative process, not distance themselves from it when the going gets tough. Their constituents in Texas deserve representatives who show up, not ones who only make appearances when it suits them.
It’s important to note this behavior isn’t new; lawmakers from both sides have pulled this disappearing act in the past. Yet, the spotlight now shines particularly bright because, once again, Democrats seem to be on the losing side. They tend to pull these stunts whenever the political tides turn against them, reminiscent of their actions four years ago when they gleefully redrew the map of Illinois to their favor. It’s fascinating how when the shoe is on the other foot, all of a sudden, it’s the end of the world.
The redistricting in Texas is especially crucial right now due to a significant influx of newcomers, including a large number of disenchanted Republicans seeking refuge from states like New York and California. Texas has gained nearly half a million new residents over the past few years, a fact that makes redistricting not just beneficial, but essential. The state’s demographics are shifting, and so should its political boundaries. Convenience can’t dictate democracy, even if some would prefer it that way.
If these runaway Democrats think they’ll escape punishment, they might be sorely mistaken. The governor has already issued warnings, signifying that enough is enough. Lawmakers who refuse to perform their duties deserve whatever consequences come their way. It’s time for elected officials to take their responsibilities seriously and for the court to reaffirm that skirting responsibilities isn’t just irresponsible—it’s political cowardice at its finest.
