In Texas, 21 of the state's 25 Republican Congressman have said nothing about Russia. Despite the heightened necessity for constituent-representative communication, not to mention the basic democratic function it serves, Texas GOP representatives have not scheduled any in-person Town Hall meetings while they are back in their districts during Congressional recess from February 20th to 24th. For reference, there are only about 88 in-person Town Hall events currently scheduled nationwide as opposed to the 222 scheduled in the same amount of time by the previous Congress. 

Some representatives will have said they will have call-in “Tele-town Halls” in lieu of in-person events. Needless to say, this is an inadequate replacement. Tele-town Halls allow for screening calls and questions and discourage follow up questions and discussion. 

Thankfully, some activist groups in Texas are making sure constituents have a place to voice their concerns, holding “mock” Town Hall meetings and inviting their representatives. 

At a time when Texans face destructive policy on both the state and national level, it is more critical than ever that constituents are able to communicate their concerns and get answers from their representatives. The emphasized urgency stems from the fact that the concerns of constituents are not limited to the typical concerns of job creation and infrastructure. They include unconstitutional threats on reproductive freedom, militant immigration policies, and unprecedented instability in the White House (the list goes on and on). 

Our representatives are public servants. They are elected by and work for the people. It is time for a feedback meeting and our representatives are running and hiding.

If you know of a town hall meeting, let us know by emailing info@progresstexas.org.