Episode 24 | Texas Hold 'Em

In this episode of the Southern Comfort Podcast, Rich and Kevin break down the escalating redistricting drama in Texas—a political chess move with national implications. Drawing historical context from the Voting Rights Act to their personal organizing roots, the Maroon Bison duo unpacks the GOP’s latest power grab, the Democratic pushback, and what’s at stake for Black and Brown communities. From busted quorum rules to gerrymandered maps and the failure of national Democratic leadership, this is a masterclass in political realness—Southern style.

📍02:11 - The Texas Redistricting Showdown
Rich and Kevin dive into Texas Republicans' mid-decade redistricting effort—an unprecedented move to maintain House control before the 2026 elections.

📍 08:30 - Texas Dems Flee the State
To block the GOP’s map, Texas Democrats flee to blue states like Illinois and New York, denying quorum and halting the legislative process.

📍 14:18 - Where Are National Democrats?
Frustration builds as Rich and Kevin call out the absence of national Democratic leaders. While state governors like Gavin Newsom and J.B. Pritzker show boldness, Congress remains silent and slow—despite looming threats to democracy.

📍20:38 - The Ghost of Shelby County
They reflect on the gutting of the Voting Rights Act in 2013 and its ongoing consequences.

📍 27:12 - Should Black ‘Safe’ Districts Still Exist? (27:12)
Kevin raises a tough question: Have majority-Black districts outlived their purpose?

🏆 Mamba Mentality Award

The Texas Democrats earn this week’s Mamba Mentality Award for their bold, strategic resistance. Fleeing the state to block an unjust redistricting plan shows real courage—and a deep commitment to protecting democracy, even at personal cost.