Democratic state lawmakers in Texas have left the state to avoid a vote on redistricting despite Republican pressure.

Democrats have left Texas for a second time in four years in an effort to block a vote by denying the legislature a quorum.

Texas Democrats seek support at St. Sabina Church amid a redistricting battle involving allegations of gerrymandering.

The Republican Party is viewing even minor gains as a steppingstone toward a more conservative-friendly City Council. "If we win one or two, that's all it's really going to take," Bella said.