Dr. Phil McGraw criticized Texas Democrats on “The Real Story” Monday for fleeing to blue states like Illinois over redistricting.
Dozens of Texas House Democrats have fled in order to deny the state House a quorum required to enact a new congressional map that could give Republicans up to five additional seats. Dr. Phil called for the arrest of the lawmakers during the episode on his YouTube channel.
WATCH:
“I’m not a political scientist. I cannot debate the pros and cons of gerrymandering. But here’s what I do know: Democrats are making a mockery of themselves and the system,” Dr. Phil said. “[Republican Texas] Governor Abbott should arrest them all. Even if you’re a hardcore Democrat, we can’t allow or reward this bad behavior. These people were elected to do a job. They have a responsibility.”
“And if you don’t like redistricting, use the courts. Use your vote or do a better job to win elections. But don’t just run away. If you’re an elected leader, treat yourself and others with dignity and respect,” he continued. “Do your job. And to do your job, you have to be here. Be heard. Weigh in. Argue the point. And don’t be a hypocrite about it.”
The Texas state Senate voted to approve the new congressional districts on Tuesday, despite nine Democrats leaving the chamber before the vote.
The Texas lawmakers particularly faced backlash for fleeing to Illinois because it is one of the most heavily gerrymandered states.
The Texas House passed a motion on Aug. 4 to issue arrest warrants for the lawmakers after they failed to appear in the chamber to vote on the proposed new congressional map. On the same day, Abbott ordered the Texas Department of Public Safety to arrest them, and Republican Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton supported their arrests.
Republican Texas Sen. John Cornyn announced on Thursday that the FBI agreed to assist in tracking down the lawmakers who fled after he solicited their assistance and claimed they may have violated state bribery laws by allegedly accepting funds from outside groups.
Former President Bill Clinton adviser Doug Schoen also said on Friday that the fleeing lawmakers reflected poorly on the Democratic Party.
“I think this is very damaging, Trace, to the Democratic brand. For those in my party who say we should be aggressive, we should fight the Republicans, I think you stand and fight, not cut and run, which is what they have done,” Schoen told guest-host Trace Gallagher. “This sends a terrible message, I think, to voters generally and certainly swing voters, and it’s become tit-for-tat.”
All republished articles must include our logo, our reporter’s byline, and their DCNF affiliation. For any questions about our guidelines or partnering with us, please contact licensing@dailycallernewsfoundation.org.
DONATE TO BIZPAC REVIEW
Please help us! If you are fed up with letting radical big tech execs, phony fact-checkers, tyrannical liberals and a lying mainstream media have unprecedented power over your news please consider making a donation to BPR to help us fight them. Now is the time. Truth has never been more critical!
- Bill Maher confronts leftist guest on blaming ‘whitey’ for Islamic oppression - December 8, 2025
- Don Lemon doesn’t push back as protester mocks Charlie Kirk in unhinged rant, calls alleged shooter ‘patriot’ - October 13, 2025
- ‘Arrest them all’: Dr. Phil shows no mercy for Texas Dems fleeing state over redistricting - August 13, 2025
Comment
We have no tolerance for comments containing violence, racism, profanity, vulgarity, doxing, or discourteous behavior. Thank you for partnering with us to maintain fruitful conversation.
BPR INSIDER COMMENTS
Scroll down for non-member comments or join our insider conversations by becoming a member. We'd love to have you!
