Despite controlling both chambers of the state legislature and the governor’s mansion, Texas Republicans are facing aggressive resistance from House Democrats who continue to block key election integrity reforms using procedural roadblocks and walkouts.
While Republican leaders pushed forward common-sense measures—such as requiring proof of U.S. citizenship to vote, tightening mail-in ballot deadlines, and banning foreign influence in state elections—Democrats in the Texas House repeatedly derailed efforts through technicalities and stall tactics.
One of the most high-profile proposals would have required voters to provide documentation proving U.S. citizenship. The bill passed in the Senate but was killed in the House after Democrats raised a parliamentary objection and then fled the chamber to deny quorum. That move shut down debate and ensured the bill would die before reaching a vote.
Republican lawmakers and conservative groups blasted the obstruction, calling it an affront to voters who overwhelmingly support stronger election safeguards. “Texas voters deserve to know their elections are secure. Instead, Democrats are protecting loopholes and foreign interests,” one GOP lawmaker said after the failed vote.
Democrats claimed the reforms were “too restrictive,” despite the fact that Texas already allows generous early voting windows and absentee options. The proposed reforms would not have removed access—but would have enforced tighter controls to prevent abuse, especially by non-citizens.
Governor Greg Abbott, who made election integrity a top legislative priority, vowed that the fight isn’t over. “We will continue to push for legislation that secures the vote and restores trust in the system,” Abbott said.
A proposed constitutional amendment requiring proof of citizenship to vote in future elections may still be placed on the ballot, giving Texans the chance to decide directly.
But for now, Democrats in the Texas House have shown they’re willing to grind the process to a halt if it means blocking reforms aimed at restoring election confidence.