Trump claims Republicans are “entitled” to five more seats in Texas, and the statement immediately throws a spotlight on the heart of the matter – a perceived sense of inherent right. It’s a statement that, in its bluntness, seemingly strips away any pretense and lays bare a core belief system. This isn’t about strategy or political maneuvering; it’s about an entitlement, a feeling of deserving something regardless of the democratic process. It’s a sentiment that resonates deeply with certain views of traditional hierarchy, where those perceived to be “on top” are believed to be inherently deserving of privileges and advantages.
Trump’s assertion becomes even more striking when juxtaposed with the realities of Texas’s political landscape.… Continue reading
During a press conference, New York Governor Kathy Hochul stated that a “war” is occurring regarding the redistricting of U.S. House maps, specifically referencing actions in Texas and other Republican-led states. Texas Democrats have left the state to prevent Republican Governor Greg Abbott’s efforts to redraw maps, which could favor Republicans. Abbott has threatened to remove the absent Democrats from their positions if they do not return, as the new map could significantly increase Republican representation. In response, California Democrats are reportedly considering a plan that could increase their representation in the state.
Read More
California Governor Gavin Newsom is considering a special election on November 4th to counteract Texas’s redistricting efforts. The governor aims to temporarily alter the state’s redistricting system to favor Democrats in Congressional elections, potentially giving the power back to state lawmakers. This move is a response to Texas’s Republican-led legislature, which is proposing new Congressional maps that could send more Republicans to the U.S. House of Representatives. The special election’s costs are still being assessed, but could be expensive.
Read More
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has stated she will retaliate against Texas Republicans if their redistricting initiative, which could eliminate five Democratic seats, moves forward. Hochul’s warning echoes California Governor Gavin Newsom’s stance, as both express concern over the proposed congressional map. The initiative has prompted fundraising efforts by Texas Democrats to combat the potential fines and arrest threats associated with leaving the state to block the initiative. Democrats are also leveraging the Democratic National Committee (DNC) to deploy advocates and engage with Republican voters.
Read More
Kerr County, Texas, lead emergency management official says he was asleep during deadly flooding, and it’s hard to know where to begin sorting through the fallout. The initial reaction is, well, surprise. Then, probably a healthy dose of anger. A lot of people are going to be asking some very pointed questions. The situation involves William “Dub” Thomas, the Kerr County Emergency Management Director since 2015, who has stated he was, in fact, asleep during the unfolding of a devastating flash flood.
Let’s be clear, everyone gets sick, right? It’s entirely understandable that he called out sick on July 3rd. We’ve all been there.… Continue reading
Democratic congressional candidate Isaiah Martin was arrested after being forcibly removed from a Texas State Capitol hearing on redistricting. Martin, running for Texas’ 18th Congressional District, was charged with criminal trespass, disrupting a meeting, and resisting arrest after exceeding his allotted speaking time and refusing to stop. While the candidate was wrestled out of the room, all charges against Martin were dropped, and he was expected to be released. Martin was protesting Republican-led efforts to alter congressional maps.
Read More
In the wake of catastrophic flooding in Kerr County, Texas, officials have significantly revised the number of missing persons from 97 down to three, following an extensive search and verification process. This revision comes after a devastating Fourth of July weekend that claimed at least 135 lives across the state, including 107 in Kerr County, and prompted a massive search effort along the Guadalupe River. Recovery operations will continue, with over 1,000 local, state, and federal authorities involved in the ongoing efforts. The Texas governor has also announced a special legislative session to address critical issues such as flood warning systems, emergency communications, and victim relief funding.
Read More
In a recent development, a New York county clerk has once again refused to file a Texas civil judgment against a doctor accused of prescribing abortion pills. This decision is based on New York’s shield law, which protects providers from legal actions in states with abortion bans. Despite demands from the Texas Attorney General’s office, the clerk has maintained the rejection, citing New York law. This case, along with another involving extradition to Louisiana, could test the boundaries of state shield laws and the legal battles surrounding abortion access.
Read More
Texas Governor Greg Abbott is seeking to keep communications with Elon Musk and his companies private, citing concerns about privacy, potential embarrassment, and the impact on open decision-making. The Texas Newsroom requested the emails to examine Musk’s influence in the state. However, the Governor’s office has requested a ruling from the Texas Attorney General to withhold the records, citing the “common-law privacy” exception, and potentially commercial interests. Legal experts like Bill Aleshire are critical of the move. The Attorney General’s office has 45 business days to decide.
Read More
In an effort to track Elon Musk’s influence in Texas, The Texas Newsroom requested emails between Governor Greg Abbott and Musk, as well as representatives from the tech mogul’s companies. Initially, the Governor’s office charged for the records but after payment, claimed all records were confidential. They cited reasons such as private exchanges with lawyers, details about policy-making decisions, and information revealing how the state entices companies to invest. Experts have criticized the use of “common-law privacy” to withhold these records, especially given a recent Texas Supreme Court ruling that provides limited recourse for those seeking these public records.
Read More
Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker