August 5, 2025

Last week was a busy one for the pro-democracy movement. Texas Democrats fled the state to deny the GOP a quorum and block their gerrymandered congressional map. The DOJ continues to demand state voter rolls. Trump fired the Bureau of Labor Statistics Commissioner to hide the truth about federal jobs data. 

I know it’s a confusing and scary time. That’s why each week, I take time from my day job as a lawyer to answer your questions and keep you informed about the latest in the fight for democracy. 

Sometimes, it’s easy to feel helpless. Each push alert feels like the weight of the world crashing on our shoulders. Each time we turn on the news we want to turn it off and walk into the ocean. But remember: information is power. We have to stay informed to protect ourselves, keep the pro-democracy movement alive and fight for our country. 

If you have a question for me, make sure to upgrade and submit it for the next edition!

Now let’s get into it.

Every Tuesday, Marc answers members' questions in a written Q&A — giving you insight into what the news really means. Upgrade now for $10/week to get Marc’s full analysis, straight from your questions.

Q: Gov. Abbott says he will get rid of the state Dems if they don't come back. Can he really kick them out since they were elected by the people, not appointed by the governor?

—  Patricia

A: Gov. Abbott cannot kick the Democrats from the Texas Legislature by himself. What he can do is to ask the courts to do his bidding. Specifically, he will ask the Texas courts to determine that the Democrats have “abandoned” their office. His goal is to misuse his power to intimidate legislators to return with the threat of new elections to fill their seats. 

Right now, Texas Democrats think he won’t pull it off. I agree.

Q: If Texas proceeds with their redistricting plan, and it was determined to be legal, would a similar plan in California and/or New York also be permitted? And why would any of them be allowed when redistricting is done each decade? 

— Lorryn

A: If Republicans are going to illegally gerrymander, Democrats need to...

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Correction: In yesterday’s newsletter, I stated that on Saturday, New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu signed a slate of new voter suppression measures into law — including one that will make it more burdensome to cast a ballot by mail. It should have said Gov. Kelly Ayotte.