Texas Democrats have returned to the state capitol, concluding a weeks-long walkout aimed at obstructing GOP efforts to redraw congressional maps. Their return restores quorum, allowing Texas Republicans a clear path to pass new redistricting maps backed by former President Trump. Amidst heightened tensions, Democrats were shadowed by law enforcement to prevent further protests, and some lawmakers, such as Rep. Nicole Collier, remained in the Capitol to protest mandatory police escorts. The developments raise concerns about the implications of partisan redistricting on upcoming elections and the overall governing dynamics in Texas.