Expert breaks down politics behind Texas redistricting battle

HOUSTON (CW39) — It’s Day 3 of what is dubbed ‘Breaking Quorum’ by the Texas Democrats who have left the state over redistricting. Several Texas House Democrats are in Illinois to break quorum for the special session.

CW39 spoke with Senior Professor of Political Science Dr. David Brenham about the controversy surrounding redistricting in Texas — and why this round is stirring up more than just political maps.

Dr. Brenham joined CW39 anchor Sharron Melton to break down what redistricting is and how it has historically shaped political majorities in Texas and across the country. While redistricting is nothing new, this time it’s different.

What makes it historic, he says, “is that other states are watching closely and considering similar strategies” — creating growing concern over gerrymandering and partisan control.

Now that Texas Democrats have left the state — breaking quorum — the special legislative session grinds to a halt. And while there’s a civil law against breaking quorum, it’s important to understand: it’s not a criminal offense. That means no handcuffs, no jail time. If detained, lawmakers would simply be escorted back to the House chamber.

So, who can legally arrest them? According to Dr. Brenham, only Texas authorities. Since the warrant for their return is valid only within Texas, Democrats cannot be arrested or extradited from another state.

That’s why Attorney General Ken Paxton is doing everything he can at the state level to bring them back. Meanwhile, Senator John Cornyn is reportedly pushing for federal intervention — even encouraging the FBI to step in. But Dr. Brenham calls that “an overreach.”

And here’s where the politics really kick in.

This isn’t just a battle over redistricting anymore. It’s become a political power play between Paxton and Cornyn — both of whom are eyeing the same Senate seat in the upcoming Republican primary. Each is trying to be the one who takes the hardest line on Democrats, hoping it’ll boost their image with Republican voters.

Will it work? Or is it just political theater?

“It’s just politics,” Brenham said. The Democrats will eventually have to return — or face consequences. That includes potentially losing committee seats, which could impact their pay. Gov. Abbott has even threatened to remove Rep. Gene Wu from office — a move Brenham believes may be about making an example out of him.

“I truly believe Wu led this. A lot of representatives were on board, but I’m sure he’s a target,” Brenham said. He pointed out a pattern: “Just like in the redistricting process, Al Green was a target. His district was disseminated — and that wasn’t a coincidence. It was a reaction to how we acted against Trump during the State of the Union and impeachments. This is about politics.”

Ultimately, Wu will have to return, Brenham said. These legal and political tactics are designed to pressure Democrats back into the House — and they’ll likely work.

In the end, the map will pass. Elections will go forward with new lines.

But here’s the real question: Is the GOP entitled to five new congressional seats in Texas?

Former President Trump says yes. But Dr. Brenham isn’t so sure.

“The voters decide,” he said. “Before Trump, Texas had fairer districts than many other states. But when Trump asked Gov. Abbott to draw out the people he didn’t like — that’s when things changed.”

Is this about race?

Not exactly, Brenham says. “It’s more of a partisan issue than a racial one.”

The redistricting process continues — and so does the political drama.