POLITICS NEWS – Texas Democrat Nicole Collier, who is locked in the state Capitol against her will, files habeas corpus over ‘Illegal Confinement’

Ananya Roy, News Writer

Texas Democratic Rep. Nicole Collier is challenging what she calls “illegal confinement” inside the state Capitol after refusing to accept a police escort mandated by Republicans. Collier, who stayed overnight on the House floor, argues the requirement is unconstitutional and unnecessary, filing a habeas corpus petition claiming she is being unlawfully restrained.

GOP leaders say lawmakers who left the state to block redistricting votes could face civil arrest. Still, Collier’s attorneys contend that it does not apply to members already present in the Capitol. The dispute comes as Republicans prepare to push through new congressional maps, which critics say would solidify their majority in next year’s midterm elections.