Texas Senate Democrats on the End of the Special Session: Wrong Priorities, Extremist Agendas

AUSTIN, TX—The Texas Senate Democratic Caucus issued the following statement on the conclusion of the second called special session:

“Texans deserved better. Families are still reeling from devastating floods, yet Republican leaders waited until the very end of the special session to pass relief—aid Governor Abbott could have authorized months ago. While communities begged for help, the Legislature wasted weeks on culture wars and political theater.

“On redistricting, Republicans rammed through a map that breaks apart long-standing communities, dilutes Latino and Black voices and strips Texans of fair representation. This racial gerrymandering ignores the law and the people—proving their real priority is helping an unpopular president cling to power, not serving Texans.

“At the same time, Republicans passed one of the most extreme abortion bills in the nation—a bounty-hunter scheme designed to turn neighbors into informants, dangle six-figure rewards to harass women and doctors and export Texas’ abortion ban nationwide. Instead of making pregnancy safer or supporting families, they chose fear, cruelty and control.

“Republicans also revived a bathroom bill, continuing their obsession with targeting vulnerable Texans while ignoring the real needs of working families. And they tried to further tie the hands of local governments—restricting how cities and counties fund police, fire and roads under the guise of “property tax relief.” These attacks on local control would have stripped communities of the tools they need to keep people safe and basic services functioning.

“Meanwhile, Texans are anxiously awaiting cuts to health care and other essential services from the GOP’s “big beautiful bill.” Families already stretched by inflation and higher costs from Trump-driven tariffs saw no relief from this legislature. Rather than use the special sessions to address real pocketbook issues, Republicans chose to double down on division.

“At every turn, they relied on procedural tricks and block tactics to silence dissent and shut out millions of Texans. That is not democracy—it is abuse of power.

“Senate Democrats stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Texas families. Our united fight delivered real aid and long-overdue investment for devastated communities. While Republicans stalled and played politics, Democrats listened, acted and delivered results.

“We remain deeply disappointed in the outcome of this session. Texas deserves leaders who listen, who lead and who put families first. Senate Democrats will keep fighting for a fair, safe and prosperous Texas for all.”