Dem congressional candidate arrested at Texas Capitol

Isaiah Martin, a Democrat running for Houston’s 18th Congressional District, was arrested after refusing to stop speaking during a tense redistricting hearing at the Texas Capitol. His testimony, which accused Republicans of manipulating district lines to favor President Donald Trump, led to his forcible removal from the chamber.

Tensions erupt during testimony

Martin started off his testimony by questioning the legitimacy of the hearing itself. “It just seems as if many are just sitting here going with their motions, and it makes sense because the game is rigged,” he said. He went on to claim that Texas Republicans are engaged in gerrymandering to secure Trump’s approval. “You gotta get Trump’s endorsement. That’s the name of the game to be a Republican nowadays,” Martin said. “Trump told every single one of you that he needs five seats. … But the real conversation we should be having … is that there will be a retaliation for that.”

Criticism of Texas leadership 

Martin didn’t stop at redistricting. He also delivered criticism of Texas’ leadership on broader issues, particularly the economy and rising housing costs. “We live in a state that is unaffordable … property taxes going up … despite the fact that you Republicans have been in office for nearly 30 straight years,” he said. He further condemned the timing of the redistricting process, referencing recent state tragedies. “After one of the worst mass casualty events in our state’s history, you choose to go and gerrymander people out of their seats.”

The aftermath

As Martin’s testimony grew more heated, Cody Vasut, chair of the House Redistricting Committee, tried to regain control. Martin refused, yelling, “No, I’m not going to finish. Because I’m … I’m NOT finished!” His criticism intensified as he turned his focus back to Trump. “You can thank your failed, senile, dilapidated, Epstein-partying with president for all of the work that we’re about to do to every single one of you,” he said. “You did this, you caused this, and this is the result of you and your work.” Vasut then ordered House sergeants to remove Martin from the building. As he was dragged away, members of the audience shouted, “Get off of him!”

Charges dropped 

Martin was reportedly charged with resisting arrest, criminal trespass and disrupting a public meeting. He was shortly released from Travis County Jail, with all charges later dropped. Following his release, Martin posted a video on X thanking his supporters for standing by him during the incident.

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