John Block, a House Representative from New Mexico, expressed his support for Governor Greg Abbott's actions to remove Texas Democrats who broke quorum. He also criticized past GOP inaction. Block made this statement on the social media platform X.
"Good for Gov. Abbott and all others who have had enough of the leftists running roughshod over us ALL THE TIME but the weakling GOP of the past being continually scared of their own shadows," said JOHN BLOCK, New Mexico State Representative for 51st District (R). "The Radical Left isn't used to us calling their bluffs or playing by their own rules."
In August 2025, Texas House Democrats walked out to deny a quorum and block a Republican redistricting plan. This led Governor Abbott to issue civil arrest warrants and push the state Supreme Court to expel absent lawmakers, raising legal questions, as reported by The Texas Tribune.
According to The Texas Tribune, Texas has experienced several major incidents of quorum-breaking in 2003, 2021, and 2025. In these instances, lawmakers left the state to prevent controversial votes, indicating that it is a recurring legislative tactic.
As reported by Wikipedia, the consequences for breaking quorum have varied across states. Indiana lawmakers faced daily fines in 2011. In Oregon, Measure 113 now prevents legislators with excessive absences from seeking reelection. In contrast, Texas primarily employs legal threats and arrest warrants.
Block is a Republican serving in the New Mexico House for District 51 since 2023. Known for his conservative commentary, he founded The Piñon Post and has advocated for energy policies, education reforms, and anti-abortion measures.
