How Texas Democrats' walkout has launched a fight across the US over political maps

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Empty chairs belonging to Texas House Representatives remain empty as House Republicans conduct business on the floor of the Texas Capitol, Friday, Aug. 8, 2025, in Austin, Texas. (AP Photo/Rodolfo Gonzalez)

AUSTIN, Texas – A weeklong walkout by Texas House Democrats is blocking redrawn congressional maps sought by President Donald Trump and put in motion a broadening fight across the U.S. over redistricting.

There is still no swift end in sight to the standoff that has scattered dozens of Texas Democrats to Illinois, New York and California, where they have been given a warm reception by blue state governors and national party leaders.

As the holdout has dragged on, Texas Republicans have ratcheted up the pressure to try