Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker (D) announced Sunday that his state would protect Texas Democrats who fled to Illinois in protest of Republican-led efforts to redraw Texas’s congressional districts. Speaking at a press conference alongside the lawmakers, Pritzker said, “They’re here in Illinois. We’re going to do everything we can to protect every single one of them and make sure that — ’cause we know they’re doing the right thing, we know that they’re following the law.”

Pritzker criticized Texas officials, stating, “It’s Ken Paxton who doesn’t follow the law. It’s the leaders of Texas who are attempting not to follow the law. They’re the ones that need to be held accountable.”

The Texas Democrats fled to deny the quorum needed for legislative business during a special session called by Republican Governor Greg Abbott. The session aimed to advance a new congressional map designed to give Republicans up to five additional seats, a move supported by former President Trump ahead of next year’s midterms.

Texas House Republicans approved the proposed maps, expected to pass due to GOP majorities in both chambers and the governor’s office. To block the plan, Democrats left the state, traveling mostly to Democratic-led states including Illinois, New York, and Massachusetts.

Republican officials are exploring ways to force Democrats to return, with threats of daily \$500 fines and possible arrests. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton called for their immediate arrest, labeling them “cowards.” Abbott warned lawmakers could also face expulsion if they do not return by Monday, while Democrats defiantly responded, “Come and take it.”