EXPLAINER: Texas Democrats fled the state. Here's why. NICHOLAS RICCARDI, Associated Press FacebookTwitterEmail 3 1of3FILE - In this May 31, 2021, file photo, Texas state Rep. Jessica Gonzalez speaks during a news conference in Austin, Texas, after House Democrats pulled off a dramatic, last-ditch walkout and blocked one of the most restrictive voting bills in the U.S. from passing before a midnight deadline. Democrats in the Texas Legislature were planning Monday, July 12, to leave the state in another revolt against a GOP overhaul of election laws.Acacia Coronado/APShow MoreShow Less 2of3Democratic caucus members of the Texas House join a rally on the steps of the Texas Capitol to support voting rights, Thursday, July 8, 2021, in Austin, Texas.Eric Gay/APShow MoreShow Less