Soros and O’Rourke’s Financial Support for Texas Democrats

Democratic donor George Soros and former Texas Representative Beto O’Rourke are key figures behind the funding of Texas Democrats who fled the state. Their departure aims to prevent a vote on a new GOP congressional map. O’Rourke’s organization, Powered by People (PBP), has been instrumental in supporting approximately 50 Democrats who traveled to New York and Illinois. The group covers expenses such as airfare, lodging, and the $500-per-day fines imposed for missing legislative sessions, as reported by the Texas Tribune. Meanwhile, the Soros-backed Texas Majority PAC collaborates with national fundraising entities to secure additional resources for this strategic delay.

Fundraising Efforts and Legal Concerns

PBP actively solicits donations through its website, assuring contributors that “100% of your donation will go to supporting Texas Democrats in their fight against Trump’s power grab.” Both PBP and Texas Majority PAC have not responded to requests for comments from Fox News Digital. Some Texas Republicans argue that using political funds to pay fines may constitute a crime, as 2023 legislation prohibits payment from political contributions. However, Democrats maintain their actions are lawful, with insiders confident in their legal distribution of funds.

Legal Challenges and Political Tensions

Governor Greg Abbott has initiated legal proceedings to remove State Rep. Gene Wu, chairman of the Texas House Democratic Caucus, from office. Abbott claims Wu’s actions violate the state’s constitution by depriving the House of a quorum necessary for conducting business. The Texas Supreme Court has ordered Wu to respond to the lawsuit, with Wu defending his stance against what he terms a “racist gerrymandered map.” The situation has escalated with suggestions from President Donald Trump that federal law enforcement may need to intervene.