All articles tagged with #texas capitol
Hundreds of Texas public school students walked out of classes on Friday as part of a nationwide movement protesting ICE killings, with demonstrations in Austin, Waco, San Antonio and at UT Austin; Gov. Greg Abbott condemned the Austin walkout and urged an investigation, while speakers called for dismantling ICE and criticized immigration enforcement practices.
The Texas State Capitol was evacuated and closed after a social media threat amid protests by Democratic lawmakers opposing redistricting plans, with some Democrats staying overnight in the Capitol in defiance of law enforcement directives, highlighting ongoing political tensions over redistricting and legislative procedures.
Texas Rep. Nicole Collier is challenging her detention inside the Capitol after refusing a police escort to leave, alleging illegal restraint. She and other Democrats left the Capitol to delay redistricting votes, and Collier's legal action seeks her immediate release, highlighting tensions over legislative procedures amid ongoing redistricting efforts.
Thousands of people gathered at the Texas Capitol and marched in support of Palestinians, with photos capturing the event.
Opponents of school vouchers rallied outside the Texas Capitol, expressing their concerns about diverting state funds to private schools instead of improving public education and teacher salaries. They argue that vouchers would defund public schools and hinder educators' ability to budget effectively. Proponents, on the other hand, believe that parents should have the choice to decide where their children receive education. Governor Greg Abbott has called for lawmakers to reconsider passing a statewide voucher program during the upcoming special session.
The Texas Capitol was evacuated for two hours on Sunday evening after an unknown person called 911 and claimed they placed a pipe bomb in the building. After a sweep of Capitol grounds, no explosive devices were found. The incident is under investigation by the Department of Public Safety. Lawmakers were not convening at the time of the threat.