Voto Latino Urges Continued Fight Against Republican Power Grab in Texas and Across the Country

Washington, D.C. — Today, in response to the Texas House of Representatives ending the special legislative session, Voto Latino President and Co-Founder María Teresa Kumar issued the following statement: 

“Texas Republican state leaders have made their priorities clear: They would rather choose to cheat and manipulate the system to seize political power, instead of addressing the pressing issues impacting families, like passing critical flood relief. 

“We commend Texas Democrats’ fight and determination to stall this sham special session, bring national attention to the matter, and for showing the rest of the country how to fight back. Now that Governor Greg Abbott has called for a second special legislative session, we call on people across the country, regardless of political affiliation, to stand for this fight to protect our democracy. We must fight to preserve the right to vote—not just for every Texan, but for every single voter across the country. 

“This moment is not only about Texas, it’s about setting a dangerous precedent for the nation. The fight in Austin is about safeguarding our democracy. We are already witnessing similar tactics being replicated in other states. This is just the beginning of what the Trump Administration and its allies are willing to do to protect their hold on power. 

“Rewriting maps mid-decade to forcibly dilute the voices of voters of color is a federal violation. This is a process that deliberately undermines how public resources are being distributed, shaping the schools we build, the hospitals we fund, and the infrastructure we maintain. Right now, the stakes are highest for communities of color, who too often bear the brunt of being underfunded. This is a direct threat to the resources that our communities depend on. 

“We will make sure that no stone is left unturned. That is why we also commend California Governor Newsom on his efforts to put voters first and give them the chance to dictate how our democracy should work. We will continue to stand in support of the Texas House Democrats, Governor Newsom and other Democrats who are choosing to stand up against the Trump Administration in their blatant attempt to dilute our collective political power.”