Rep. Jared Patterson, a Republican member of the Texas State House representing the 106th district since 2019, posted a series of statements on his Twitter account regarding actions against Democratic lawmakers who were absent from legislative proceedings.
On August 3, 2025, Patterson expressed skepticism about the whereabouts of Democratic legislators and called for immediate action by House leadership: “I doubt 51 or more Democrats actually left the state. Many will remain close to their families and jobs. Given such, I urge the Speaker to issue a Call on the House as soon as possible and send the House Sgt and DPS to apprehend anyone not on the House Floor at 3pm Monday.”
Later that day, he highlighted potential consequences facing absent members and referenced additional authority held by Governor Greg Abbott: “In addition to the penalties added to the House Rules, Gov. @GregAbbott_TX reserves the right to add items to the Special Session call, including redistricting Texas House seats. If all options are on the table, ALL options should be explored.” This tweet suggests that further legislative measures could be considered in response to ongoing events.
On August 4, Patterson reported new developments involving law enforcement and financial penalties: ” Arrest warrants have been signed for the derelict Democrats Collectively, House Democrats are now responsible for $27,500 in fines PLUS costs associated with DPS Troopers working to apprehend the missing members. These fines cannot be paid for out of state budgets or”
Patterson was elected in 2019 after replacing former representative Pat Fallon in Texas’s 106th district.
This series of posts reflects ongoing tensions within Texas state government over legislative attendance and procedural compliance during special sessions.
