Texas Democrats Defy GOP Surveillance, Tear Up 'Permission Slips' | JQJO

Texas Democrats are defying new surveillance protocols imposed by Republicans, refusing police escorts after leaving the state to block a controversial congressional redistricting vote. Rep. Nicole Collier spearheaded the protest, refusing to sign a "permission slip" to leave the chamber. Other Democrats, some reporting intense monitoring including officers following them to grocery stores, tore up their slips upon returning. The Republican plan aims to benefit the GOP in the 2026 midterms, while Democrats plan legal challenges. The situation escalated from a two-week quorum break and involves fines and potential legal action against absent Democrats.