UPDATE: A dramatic sit-in by Texas Representative Nicole Collier is escalating as fellow Democrats rally in support, protesting police involvement in a contentious redistricting fight. The standoff at the Texas House has entered its second night, with Collier steadfastly refusing a police escort mandated by House Speaker Dustin Burrows.
Collier began her round-the-clock vigil on August 20, 2025, after Burrows ordered that Democrats who had been absent must be accompanied by a Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) officer while on the House floor. “I’m so grateful for their support,” Collier declared, as a growing crowd gathered outside the chamber, echoing demands for her freedom and condemning what they see as government overreach.
Late Tuesday, Collier livestreamed her experience, criticizing the Republican leadership’s tactics. “It’s ridiculous the lengths that Republicans will go through just to get what they want and to punish us,” she said in an exclusive interview. This incident has drawn national attention, with Collier’s posts amassing over 1.5 million views within hours.
Democratic representatives, including Penny Morales Shaw and Mihaela Plesa, have joined Collier in an act of defiance, tearing up their permission slips in a bold stand against what they deem illegal authority. “We will not allow them to continue to keep silent in our communities,” stated Rep. Cassandra Garcia Hernandez, highlighting the ongoing struggle for representation.
As the situation unfolds, tensions in the Texas House remain high. Burrows has indicated that the restrictive measures will be lifted once the congressional map vote occurs, expected as early as Wednesday. However, Democrats insist they are ready to address pressing issues like flood relief and education if their rights are respected.
Collier has also filed a lawsuit in Travis County Court, arguing that her presence negates the need for a DPS escort. This legal battle reflects deeper concerns over the use of police in legislative processes, stirring fears of authoritarianism in Texas politics.
The Texas NAACP has vocally supported Collier, labeling the police escort as “extreme” and reminiscent of the state’s Jim Crow past. “We are not being held here because we need to get flood recovery to the people of Texas,” Plesa remarked, emphasizing the absurdity of the situation.
Throughout the night, Collier and her supporters remained committed to their cause, with food and blankets provided by staffers. “We don’t leave people behind,” said Rep. Wu, who stayed with Collier, noting the importance of shining a light on what they view as over-the-top police tactics.
As this situation continues to develop, the eyes of Texas—and the nation—are watching closely. The fight for democracy, representation, and civil rights is far from over. Stay tuned for updates as the Texas House prepares for a critical vote that could reshape the political landscape.
