In a twist that surprises no one, Texas Governor Greg Abbott is stepping up to the plate and swinging at the Democrats who have decided to play a game of hide and seek with their duties. Abbott’s latest move is to arrest those state Democrats who decided fleeing from legislative responsibilities was a more appealing option than dealing with issues like redistricting or flooding. Perhaps these lawmakers have confused their job with a never-ending vacation in Illinois or New York, but whatever confusion they’ve cooked up, Governor Abbott is determined to serve a reminder of what it means to actually work for the people who elected them.
The Democrats who absconded to other states might have thought they could avoid their responsibilities, but Abbott’s likely hoping to show them the folly of their ways. After all, the people in Texas, especially in places like Kerrville, are waiting for action on critical matters such as flood relief. While the Democrats are gallivanting about in other states, enjoying the winds of the Windy City or whatever it is they do, real Texans are left dealing with real problems and no representation.
Meanwhile, voices from other states, like California’s very own Governor Gavin Newsom, are drowned in complaints about being unjustly treated. It’s quite rich, really, to see him bristle at Texas’s redistricting moves, while conveniently forgetting California’s own colorful history with gerrymandering. It’s almost like a chef who can’t stand heat despite working in a kitchen. But, the great state of Texas is unlikely to be intimidated by thinly veiled threats from the West Coast. They’re too busy trying to maintain some semblance of order without the likes of those who ran away.
The antics don’t stop with fleeing Democrats and ironic governors. Some members of Congress, like the infamous “Squad,” are jetting off to Mexico City, immune to irony, announcing just how proud they are of their heritage, sometimes seemingly prouder of the countries they left behind. It’s enough to confuse any rational observer — why champion a country you’ve fled? But, they persist, often touting the pride of origins over their American identity, much to the bewilderment of those who argue that representing American citizens should, perhaps, be the first priority.
Governor Abbott’s call for accountability stands as a clarion demand for responsibility and action. Texans, like all Americans, deserve leaders who will stick around and fight the good fight, not those who pick up and bolted when the going gets tough. As the spotlight shines on Texas, one can only shake their head at the absurdity unfolding in plain view. It’s a drama filled with political merry-go-rounds and the reminder that leadership requires not only being present but also being accountable.
