End of Week Message

What Texas Democrats are doing cannot get lost in the chaos

Tonight, I’m not just writing to you as a journalist. I’m writing as a witness. A witness to a moment that demands we choose: fight or fold.

Right now in Texas, Democratic lawmakers are taking a stand the only way they can—by walking out. They’ve fled the state to block a gerrymandering plan that would carve up districts, silence voters, and cement minority rule. In response, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is threatening to arrest them.

Let’s be clear: this is not politics as usual. This is a power grab. This is a test of will. And it’s not just about Texas—it’s about every one of us who refuses to be ruled by fear, corruption, and authoritarian tactics.

This is the line. And Texas is holding it.

That’s why I’m here—writing, reporting, and refusing to look away. Because moments like this are exactly why journalism exists. Not to both-sides the truth. Not to sit on the sidelines. But to shine a light, raise the alarm, and say: This is happening. Pay attention.

I am staying up late chasing this story. I am ready to continue shedding light to what’s happening in Texas and across the country as some try to gerrymander congressional districts, diluting your voice in the process.

Because this is the work. And this is the moment.

But I can’t do it alone.

This newsletter isn’t backed by a media empire. I don’t take ad money. Every word I write, every story I break—it exists because of you. Because you choose to support independent journalism that doesn’t flinch.

If you believe in that—if you believe that the truth still matters and that the people deserve to know what’s happening in their name—then I’m asking you to become a paid subscriber.

Because Texas is rising. And we need to rise with it.

It’s not just the lawmakers. It’s the organizers, the lawyers, the citizens showing up to meetings, refusing to be silent. It’s anyone who’s brave enough to say no to power and yes to justice.

I know we’re tired. I’ve filed stories from highway rest stops. I’ve cried at my desk. I’ve wondered more than once how much longer I can keep going. But then I see what’s happening in Texas—and I remember. This is why we fight.

This is why journalism matters. Let’s keep speaking truth to power.

Because this road ahead won’t be easy. The next election, the next battle, the next attempt to roll back our rights—they’re already on the horizon. But I’ll be here. Holding the line. Writing the truth. And standing with you.

Take care of yourselves, and let’s continue the fight.

With grit and gratitude,

Aaron