AUSTIN, Texas — The redistricting debate in Texas is entering a new chapter as a second special session continues, and House Democrats begin returning to Austin after weeks away.

State Rep. Ron Reynolds of Missouri City said he plans to return. On Friday, State Rep. Ann Johnson announced her decision, saying, “I’m returning to Texas to continue the fight — from the floor of the House.”

House Democrats argue their quorum break was a pivotal move. In a new statement, party leaders said the walkout forced Gov. Greg Abbott to end the first special session and sparked a national movement, with states like California, New York, and Maryland preparing countermeasures to blunt Republican redistricting efforts.

Minority Leader Gene Wu, who chairs the Texas House Democratic Caucus, said Democrats

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