Opening Arguments Republicans Are Messing with Texas
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Aug 22, 2025 Texas lawmakers are in hot water as one files a habeas petition to escape the state capitol. The redistricting plan raises eyebrows, with experts warning it could be illegal and threaten democracy. Immigration policy takes a turn with memos granting broad powers on a person's 'good moral character.' Meanwhile, a quirky legal battle brews between Columbia Sportswear and Columbia University over trademarks. The implications of these events on voter rights and representation reveal the chaos of Texas politics.
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Quorum Breaks Are Temporary Shields
- Texas Democrats fled the state to break quorum and block mid-decade partisan redistricting.
- Quorum breaks buy time but are expensive and legally limited, so they are not a long-term solution.
Mid-Decade Redistricting Exploits A Legal Gap
- Mid-decade redistricting isn't clearly illegal at the federal level, so states like Texas can attempt it.
- Political gerrymandering remains largely non-justiciable after Rucho v. Common Cause, enabling partisan maps.
Nicole Collier's Capitol Habeas Petition
- Representative Nicole Collier refused to sign a custody-release order and stayed inside the Texas Capitol.
- She filed a habeas petition arguing she is present and cannot be lawfully detained from leaving.