According to Texas Tribune, Texas state Democrats left the House floor Sunday to block a restrictive voting bill from passing.
What’s in the bill: The bill would ban 24-hour drive-thru voting in Harris County (Houston, TX). The black and Hispanic population had cast more than half the votes during the extended hours last year.
What Happened: Democrats left the house floor late Sunday night after it became apparent to Chris Turner, (D), the party’s House caucus chair that the republicans were going to cut off the debate on vote suppression legislation. He then sent out a text message to lawmakers stating “Members, take your key and leave the chamber discreetly. Do not go to the gallery. Leave the building,” at 10:35 PM CST, as NyTimes Reported.
What’s Happening: Gov. Greg Abbott (R) said after the surprise walkout he will add the bill to a special session later this year. He also vowed to defund the state legislature.
