In an unexpected yet somewhat predictable move out of the Lone Star State, Attorney General Ken Paxton is saddling up for one of those classic political showdowns that keep the rest of us entertained. The issue at hand? Democrats taking an unexpected vacation from their official duties by fleeing the state, presumably to avoid voting on key legislation. Paxton, armed with his distinctive mix of legal fervor and Texan flair, has decided enough is enough and his solution? Make the Texas Supreme Court declare these wayward lawmakers have vacated their offices.

There is a bit of irony in the situation that even a cowboy poet could appreciate. This group of Democrats, initially elected to represent their constituents in the Texas House, appears to believe their most logical course of action is to not show up. One imagines they are busy holding secret strategy meetings in undisclosed locations, all the while forgetting that their primary job was, in fact, to participate in legislative processes. It could almost be comical if it weren’t so serious.

Now, this political maneuver is not unprecedented. One step back in history shows both parties have taken advantage of similar tactics whenever it suits their narrative. Laura, host of “My View,” would be quick to remind folks of when the shoe was on the other foot, and Republicans were the ones at the helm of such theatrics. Yet this go-round, the Democrats find themselves on the wrong side of the chessboard, trying to make a power play that some believe amounts to little more than political tomfoolery.

But there is more at stake than just some empty seats in the Texas House. Texas has experienced a population boom that rivals that of the days when the oil rush brought in crowds from all over the country. With nearly half a million new Texans, many of whom are fleeing the taxing constraints of states like New York and California, it is time to update district maps. Realigning these maps ensures proper representation and according to some, Republicans stand to benefit from this shuffle considering the sentiments of the newer arrivals.

So here we stand, in Texas, where the horses are as big as the hairdos and politics don’t stray far behind in drama. The Democratic clan may have turned tail for now, but Paxton, along with Governor Abbott, insists on keeping those spurs rattling. If these lawmakers don’t return to face the legal music, there’s a belief they deserve whatever repercussions roll their way. After all, what is a democratic society if not a place where elected officials show up and do the jobs they were sent to do?