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Texas Supreme Court Rejects Abbott's Bid to Vacate Democrats

5/16/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Texas Supreme Court rejected Governor Greg Abbott’s petition to vacate Rep. Gene Wu and 13 other Democrats who fled during the 2025 quorum-break.
Chief Justice Jimmy Blacklock said internal legislative remedies, such as fines, restored the quorum without court involvement.
Justice James Sullivan warned the court could pursue a quo warranto action if future quorum breaks remain unresolved.

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Story summary

Texas Supreme Court rejected Governor Greg Abbott’s petition to vacate Rep. Gene Wu and 13 other Democrats who fled during the 2025 quorum-break.
Chief Justice Jimmy Blacklock said internal legislative remedies, such as fines, restored the quorum without court involvement.
Justice James Sullivan warned the court could pursue a quo warranto action if future quorum breaks remain unresolved.