Texas Democrats in Illinois join Rainbow PUSH to mark 60th anniversary of Voting Rights Act

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Texas House Democrats in Illinois say they are committed to staying out of their state until the special session ends August 19.

The lawmakers left Austin and came to Illinois last Sunday to block a quorum and prevent a vote on Republican-drawn congressional maps, which could give the GOP up to five additional U.S. House seats.



Two bomb threat were reported this week at the St. Charles hotel where they've been staying.

RELATED | 2nd bomb threat in 1 week reported at St. Charles hotel, where Texas Democrats staying

On Saturday, several of the lawmakers stood with Rainbow PUSH to mark the 60th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act.



The lawmakers who attended spoke about how their push to block Republican-led redistricting protects voting rights nationwide.

Republicans in Texas have responded with threats of arrest, pay restrictions and even removal from office for absent members.

Bryan Zarou from the Better Government Association joined ABC7 Saturday morning to discuss the redistricting fight in Texas.