Texas Republican leaders, including Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and Attorney General Ken Paxton, are weighing serious legal consequences for Democratic lawmakers who fled the state in protest of a redistricting bill.

Governor Greg Abbott has made it clear: those Democrats could face second-degree felony charges, especially if evidence proves that money was exchanged to influence legislative action or abstention — an act that could constitute bribery.

The GOP is calling for prosecution, vowing to hold lawmakers accountable to ensure the legislative process is not undermined.