For Immediate Release
July 12, 2021
AUSTIN, TX — More than 50 Democratic lawmakers have left the state denying a quorum and halting the progression of a draconian voter suppression bill. This is the second time Democratic lawmakers use this tactic as Texas Governor Greg Abbott and Lt. Governor Dan Patrick have tried repeatedly to restrict access to the ballot even further, largely for political gain. Measures under consideration would dramatically reduce early voting hours, ban drive-thru voting, impose new restrictions on naturalized citizens and grant special protections for partisan poll watchers.
Texas Freedom Network Executive Director Val Benavidez:
“This is a historical day for Texas. Advocates, voters, and friendly legislators have spoken out for months against the voter suppression efforts of the Republican Party, and this second walkout is an example of how much we will all fight to protect our democratic right to vote.
“Governor Abbott and Lt. Governor Patrick have proven willing to take extreme measures to advance an agenda that attacks Texans’ rights and diminishes Texas’ democracy. And extreme measures call for an extraordinary response. Today’s action by more than 50 Democratic lawmakers rejects their patently corrupt special legislative session, and is a critical step toward blocking this assault on Texans’ rights in its tracks.
“By denying a quorum to a blatant attempt at a power grab by Gov. Abbott and Lt. Gov. Patrick, these Democratic lawmakers are listening to Texans and taking a critical stand for the future of our state’s democracy. The Texas Freedom Network applauds them, and will similarly not rest until our lawmakers once again focus on the issues actually facing Texans today, like our crumbling power grid.”
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The Texas Freedom Network (tfn.org) is a grassroots organization of religious and community leaders and young Texans building an informed and effective movement for equality and social justice.
