State lawmakers consider subpoena for DOJ employee who called for redrawing of congressional maps

AUSTIN, Texas (KTRK) -- With Republicans vague on redistricting details, some Democrats are looking for specifics from the federal agency that said the state's congressional maps need to be redrawn.

Right now, Texas lawmakers are considering changing congressional districts during the special session. On Tuesday, the latest Senate committee hearing took place.

Although nearly 70 people testified, they could only speculate on their concerns because so far no proposed maps have been released.

"The committee's hearings cannot be meaningful unless the public can see and respond to a map that's under consideration," attorney Nina Perales told the committee.

The House wrapped up its hearings on Monday. The committee traveled to Arlington and Houston.

The Senate stayed in Austin. State Sen. Carol Alvarado (D-Houston) said she'd like to see that change if there are future hearings once the maps are released.

"People have been showing up to testify in person," Alvarado explained. "So, if you try to compare that to the virtual response, there's quite a difference there."

Republican leaders said the maps are coming, but don't have an answer as to when.

"At this time, there's no map before us," State Sen. Phil King (R-Weatherford) said. "I do expect one to be before us. When it does, we'll immediately make it available to the public."

Normally, redistricting happens every ten years. Just four years after lawmakers approved congressional maps, they're at it again after the Department of Justice sent a letter saying the maps are discriminatory.

"I believe the map I voted for in 2021 was a legal map," King explained. "I think the testimony I've seen in trials supports that."

King added he'd like to see the evidence from the DOJ as to why the maps might be discriminatory.

Alvarado said she asked the person behind the DOJ letter to come to Austin. She says she got no response.

On Wednesday, the Senate committee will consider sending the federal employee a subpoena.

"I think it's extremely important that she appear before this committee to answer questions," Alvarado explained. "Her letter was very specific, targeting four districts."

Four seats Democrats fear they could lose if the districts are changed. Right now, there are no further hearings scheduled.

Lawmakers say they'll happen when the maps are released. When that'll be is unclear, but we do know the special session ends in mid-August, and the maps have to move out of committees before getting approval in both chambers.

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