Critics say the governor is using relief dollars as leverage and political cover to push through President Trump's redistricting plan.

"Texas House Democrats will issue our demands for a second special session on Friday," Democratic leader Gene Wu wrote. "Abbott can choose to govern for Texas families, or he can keep serving Trump and face the consequences we've unleashed nationwide.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott warned on Sunday that Democratic lawmakers who fled the state to break quorum during a special legislative session could be removed from office for abandoning their duties.