**FBI Launches Urgent Manhunt for Fleeing Texas Democrats Amid Legislative Crisis**
In a dramatic escalation of Texas’s political turmoil, the FBI has stepped in to assist state authorities in tracking down a group of Democratic legislators who have absconded from the state. This bold move comes after these lawmakers fled to avoid participating in critical legislative sessions, aiming to thwart the Texas government’s agenda. Arrest warrants have been issued, and Governor Greg Abbott has vowed to bring them back to the capital, declaring, “We will find them and we will arrest them.”
The urgency of the situation is underscored by the ongoing special session called by Abbott, with only two weeks remaining for lawmakers to address pressing issues such as disaster relief following recent floods. Abbott, alongside Senator John Cornyn, has confirmed that the FBI will provide crucial support in locating these legislators, who are accused of abandoning their duties and potentially accepting funds in exchange for their absence—a serious violation of Texas law.
The fleeing Democrats, reportedly hiding in states like New York and Illinois, are now the targets of a multi-faceted investigation led by Attorney General Ken Paxton, who is scrutinizing potential bribery linked to their flight. “This is public corruption,” Paxton stated, emphasizing the gravity of their actions. The Texas Supreme Court has also been alerted, with a petition filed to initiate the removal process for these lawmakers.
As tensions rise, the implications of this manhunt extend beyond Texas, raising questions about the integrity of the legislative process and the lengths to which officials will go to uphold governmental responsibilities. With the clock ticking and political stakes higher than ever, all eyes are on Texas as the FBI intensifies its efforts to bring these runaway legislators back to face the music.