Texas Rep Nicole Collier Trapped Inside Capitol Over Protest

Texas State Democratic Representative Nicole Collier is making major headlines after refusing to sign what she calls an “outrageous” permission slip that would force her to be escorted around.

Collier, one of the many Democrats who previously left Texas in protest of what they call “rigged redistricting,” chose to remain in the chamber overnight rather than agree to the new rule. The imposed requirement comes after Texas Democrats broke quorum, stalling redistricting votes.

“Republicans are redrawing the map to silence minority voters, and silencing anyone who dares speak out,” the Texas House Democratic Caucus wrote on X.

Is Breaking Quorum Illegal?

Breaking quorum isn’t against the law; it’s a political tactic. In Texas, two-thirds of members must be present for the House or Senate to do business. If enough lawmakers leave, they can grind the process to a halt.

Lawmakers who break quorum can’t be criminally charged for walking out. However, the majority party can vote to have them compelled back to the chamber, often using law enforcement escorts or fines.

When Republicans Did the Same Thing

While it’s mostly Texas Democrats who’ve made headlines for breaking quorum, Republicans have done it too.

In Oregon, GOP state senators staged walkouts in 2019, 2020, and again in 2023 to block Democratic bills including: abortion, climate policy, and transgender health care. The 2023 walkout lasted six weeks.

For now, Collier remains locked in the Texas Capitol building, unable to leave, but those watching online have many things to say about it.

"They’re so worried about Nicole Collier but not about who is in the Epstein files… insanity." -Paige via TikTok

 

"She prevented republicans from passing gerrymandering maps. For those who don’t know what this does: this changes the voting districts to better align with “certain” policies. In turn, it allows for more votes in that area or fewer votes in that area, to count towards the electoral college. This determines who is in office!!! It’s kind of a big deal!!!" -Jennifer Stockford via TikTok

 

"They want her to sign a permission slip, giving permission to be controlled and surveiled.... to sign away her rights of free movement." -Tracycakes via TikTok