The U.S. Supreme Court’s 6-3 decision to reverse a lower court’s ruling and uphold the mid-decade redrawn congressional map for Texas sent candidates scrambling to file or opt to retire with the filing deadline on Monday, Dec. 8. The map is likely to give Republican candidates wins in up to five congressional districts previously held by Democrats.The majority on the court agreed that the redistricting was done for partisan purposes, calling it “indisputable,” The Dallas Morning News reported. Those opposing it claim it was redrawn to dilute the voting power of the state’s minorities in Houston, Dallas and South Texas.
Six Texas GOP members of Congress are leaving
At least six Texas Republican members of Congress are retiring or seeking a higher office, the Houston Chronicle reported. The latest to announce his retirement is U.S. Rep. Troy Nehls, R-Richmond, one of President Trump’s most ardent backers in that chamber. His brother, Trevor, has announced he plans to run for that seat.Others planning to leave when their term ends in 2027 include U.S. Reps. Jody Arrington, R-Plainview; Morgan Luttrell, RMagnolia; Michael McCaul, R-Austin; Wesley Hunt, RHouston, who is running for the U.S. Senate spot now held by John Cornyn; and Chip Roy, R-Hays County, who is running for Texas attorney general.Republicans currently hold a 219-seat majority in the House, with Democrats holding 213 seats. There are three vacancies.‘
