The Latest: Texas governor threatens lawmakers who left the state over Trump-backed redistricting

Dozens of Democratic lawmakers have left Texas in an attempt to block the adoption of redrawn U.S. House maps sought by President Donald Trump.

Republican Gov. Greg Abbott says he will begin trying to remove the absent lawmakers from office if they do not return. The Texas House was unable Monday to vote on the maps after it fell short of the required quorum due to the Democrats’ absence.

The Republican-dominated House also quickly issued civil arrest warrants for absent members and Abbott ordered state troopers to help find and arrest them, but Democrats who are not in Texas are beyond the jurisdiction of state authorities.

The revolt by the Texas Democrats — many of whom fled to Illinois or New York on Sunday — and Abbott’s threat ratcheted up a widening fight over congressional maps. The conflict has expanded to include Democratic governors who are floating the possibility of redrawing their own state’s maps in retaliation. Their options are limited.

Here's the latest:

California Democrats consider new congressional maps to slash 5 GOP US House seats

A draft plan that’s circulating aims to boost the Democratic margin to 48 of California’s 52 congressional seats, according to a source familiar with the plan who was not authorized to discuss it publicly. It would need approval from lawmakers and voters, who may be skeptical to give it after handing redistricting power to an independent commission years ago.

In addition, the proposal would generously pad Democratic margins in districts for competitive seats.

The move comes in direct response to efforts by Texas Republicans to redraw House districts in order to strengthen the GOP hold on the chamber in 2026.

▶ Read more about the proposed new California political maps