Lloyd Doggett will not run for reelection due to Supreme Court's ruling on Texas redistricting

Texas Congressman Lloyd Doggett (D) has declared that he will not run for reelection following the Supreme Courts endorsement of the states updated congressional map. In a Friday statement, Doggett emphasized his commitment to continue serving with full dedication for the remainder of his term. I will maintain the same urgency and resolve as if next year were my last in public office, he stated. After that, I plan to find new ways to contribute to my community in the only city I have ever called home.

Earlier this year, Republican lawmakers in Texas sought to implement a new congressional map designed to favor their party, reshaping district boundaries to reduce Democratic representation in the House. Initially, Democratic legislators left the state to prevent the legislature from reaching a quorum needed to pass the measure. They returned after assurances from California officials and other Democrats that similar redistricting efforts in their states would counterbalance the GOP advantage in Texas.

A federal court panel had blocked the map in November, citing concerns that it could constitute racial gerrymandering. The dispute eventually reached the Supreme Court, which allowed Texas to proceed with the new map just in time for the upcoming midterm elections.

Doggett, who has represented his district since 1995, highlighted his concern over the broader implications of the redistricting in his statement, praising Justice Elena Kagans dissent. He criticized what he described as partisan manipulation of district lines to secure political control, warning that further attempts to manipulate the system could follow. I will continue to fight vigorously and support others working for fairness across the country, he added.

Author: Jackson Miller