Democrats who run populous states are considering redistricting, but some of them face a hurdle: Their parties don’t have control over drawing legislative maps. Instead, the power is in the hands of independent commissions, something often left-leaning pro-democracy advocates have supported to enact fair maps that reduce gerrymandering.

Senator John Cornyn and Attorney General Ken Paxton are vying to be the tougher candidate on Democratic lawmakers who left Texas, as potential Democratic rivals seek their own spotlight.

Reports have suggested the absent lawmakers are considering a return to Texas, while a statement from the caucus insists a decision has not been made.