Latest news with #MarcVeasey
Yahoo
6 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Local leaders speak out against Tarrant County redistricting efforts
The Brief Tarrant County Judge Tim O'Hare is leading an effort to redraw the county's commissioner precinct maps. Some Tarrant County Commissioners, Fort Worth City Council members, and local mayors are opposed to the plan, arguing it's an attempt to eliminate the chances of a minority being elected. Legal experts say redistricting to favor one political party over another is allowed, but racial discrimination is not. FORT WORTH, Texas - Tarrant County Commissioners will soon vote on a controversial redistricting map. Not all commissioners agree on it, and some argue that it could reshape Tarrant County politics. What we know Tarrant County Judge Tim O'Hare is reportedly behind the effort to redraw the Tarrant County Commissioners Court precinct boundaries. He and some other Republicans argue the process is more than a decade overdue. New maps are often drawn after census data is released every 10 years. But in 2021, commissioners voted against making any changes. They'll vote again on June 3. The other side U.S. Congressman Marc Veasey made a public statement on Tuesday, strongly denouncing the proposed changes. "Let me saw it loud and clear for the people in the back. This is illegal. this is intentional racial discrimination. It still violates the Voting Rights Act and the 14th Amendment," he said. "If you look at this map, you will see. If you look precisely at this map, you will see that it was meant to dilute black voting power and brown voting power in Tarrant County. Period. End of story." He was joined by two Democratic Tarrant County Commissioners – Alisa Simmons and Roderick Miles – as well as several Fort Worth City Council members. The mayors of 10 Tarrant County cities, including Fort Worth, Arlington, Mansfield, and Grand Prairie, have also signed a letter expressing their opposition to the proposed map. "What you see in this redistricting effort today is nothing more than Tim O'Hare's continued efforts to silence the voices of those in Tarrant County who do not believe like him, to silence the voices specifically of the black and brown members of our community," said For Worth Councilwoman Elizabeth Beck. The group called the effort ill-timed because it's the middle of the decade and, in their opinion, the census data from 2020 is outdated. They also argued that four community meetings are not enough to give residents a chance to express their opinions on the proposed new precincts. Dig deeper Political analyst Bud Kennedy said that while there's nothing in the Voting Rights Act to prevent a redistricting effort that favors one political party over another, there are restrictions against racial discrimination. "The Republicans feel like they have to do this because if they were to lose the county judge seat, along with a commissioner seat, the Democrats would flip the court," he said. "It's something you can do any time. You're supposed to use the best census information." Kennedy is not familiar with what census data the proposed map uses but said the newest estimates would show a growing population in the northern part of the county. He pointed out that, collectively, the opposing cities can't compete with the population boom of the county's northern voters. "You didn't see any mayors from the Republican precincts in the north half of the county on that list (of opposing mayors). There's a reason for Fort Worth to be upset. People in Southwest Fort Worth would have to go to an Arlington commissioner for help. There's a reason for Arlington to be upset about being divided. The problem is these two big cities don't have any control with the county courthouse right now. It's Southlake, Keller, and Haslet that have control," he said. Kennedy said if the map is approved, it will likely be challenged. But with the Supreme Court removing the requirement for pre-clearance of the redistricting map, the approved version would likely take effect while it is contested in court. Kennedy also pointed out that Veasey has been a vocal advocate for fair redistricting at every level. "This is right up his alley. If there is a flaw in this map, he'll find it," he said. The Source FOX 4's Dionne Anglin gathered details for this story at a town hall event hosted by Congressman Mark Veasey, as well as an interview with political analyst Bud Kennedy.
CBS News
6 days ago
- General
- CBS News
Tarrant County redistricting plan draws accusations of racial gerrymandering, legal concerns
A coalition of elected leaders is urging Tarrant County commissioners to halt a controversial redistricting process they believe is being rushed through without justification or transparency, and could violate federal law. Congressman Marc Veasey, joined by the county's two Democratic commissioners and several Fort Worth City Council members, called the effort "an illegal power grab" during a press conference held outside the Commissioners Court on Tuesday. "This isn't democracy," Veasey said. "It's a demolition job." The push to redraw the precinct boundary lines is being led by Republican County Judge Tim O'Hare, who brought in a conservative law firm in early April to draft five proposed maps. Redistricting typically follows the decennial U.S. Census, which last occurred in 2020. The next count is not scheduled until 2030. "We have no new census data. None," said Commissioner Alisa Simmons. "So you're redrawing the boundaries based on 2020 census data. It just doesn't make sense." Critics argue the proposed changes disproportionately impact communities of color by shifting Black and Hispanic populations out of Precinct 2, currently represented by a Democrat, and into Precinct 1, also held by a Democrat. Both precincts would see significant changes under the new maps. "Black and Hispanic populations have surged in Tarrant County, but instead of respecting that reality, O'Hare is trying to erase that reality," Veasey said. "This is intentional racial discrimination that's unfolding in real time." Fort Worth City Council member Elizabeth Beck echoed that sentiment, accusing O'Hare of trying to suppress minority voters. "What you see in this redistricting today is nothing more than Tim O'Hare's continued effort to silence the voices of those in Tarrant County who do not believe like him, to silence the voices specifically of Black and brown members of our community," Beck said. Republican commissioners have been open in public comments that their goal is to increase GOP representation on the court. A previous redistricting effort by a Republican-majority court following the 2020 census resulted in no changes to the precinct maps. Critics now question why a mid-decade redistricting is being pursued, especially with no new data, and accuse the court of undermining public trust. The law firm hired for the job has not answered questions about the criteria or data it used to come up with the new boundary lines. Ten Tarrant County mayors, including those representing Fort Worth, Arlington and Grand Prairie, have signed a letter urging commissioners to delay the vote. They warn that the proposed maps may violate non-discrimination standards under the U.S. Voting Rights Act and could be vulnerable to legal challenges. "Their courage and clarity reflect the growing chorus of voices speaking out for justice, fairness, and local representation," said Commissioner Roderick Miles, Jr. The Arlington City Council is expected to vote on a resolution Monday night calling for more public engagement and a more thorough analysis of the redistricting plans. The city councils in Fort Worth and Grand Prairie have already passed resolutions opposing the process. CBS News Texas reached out to Judge O'Hare's office for comment, but has not received a response. The Tarrant County Commissioners Court is scheduled to vote on the redistricting proposal Tuesday, June 3.
Yahoo
20-03-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Lloyd Doggett demands answers from CDC: 'What are you doing about Texas measles outbreak?'
U.S. House representatives from Texas are asking the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for a detailed report on how it is handling the measles outbreak in Texas. As of Tuesday, the Texas Department of State Health Services has counted 286 cases of the highly contagious disease this year. Most of those cases, 279, are in West Texas, centered around Gaines County. Only one case has been in Travis County. One child from Texas has died in the outbreak, and 36 people have been hospitalized. Only two of the people who have contracted the disease in West Texas have been vaccinated with the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine. That vaccine is typically given at age 1 and a second dose between ages 4 and 6. U.S. Reps. Lloyd Doggett; D-Austin, Marc Veasey, D-Dallas-Fort Worth, and Lizzie Fletcher, D-Houston, wrote to CDC acting Director Dr. Susan Monarez: "The current outbreak has primarily affected school-aged children, highlighting the urgent need to support the state of Texas' efforts to contain its spread and prevent further loss of life. We are troubled that anti-vaccine misinformation, cuts to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) workforce, and reductions of public health funding will threaten the country's ability to respond to the current measles outbreak, and future public health threats." They cite 750 people who have lost their jobs at the CDC because of federal firings under the Department of Government Efficiency. It also notes recent interviews with U.S. Health and Human Services Director Robert Kennedy Jr. in which he touted the use of Vitamin A to fight measles. Vitamin A should only be given to people who are deficient and can cause serious health problems if someone is given too much. It does not prevent measles but can help people who have symptoms in some cases, according to Dr. Ron Cook, a Texas Tech professor and primary care doctor in Lubbock. The letter states: "As local pharmacies report shortages of MMR vaccine doses, the Administration has shipped doses of Vitamin A to Texas, endorsing its use in addition to cod liver oil to reduce the outbreak, neither of which are scientifically proven to reduce the spread of the disease." Measles is highly contagious, infecting 90% of unvaccinated people who are exposed to a contagious person. It lives on surfaces up to two hours. The letter also expresses concern about federal funding of the CDC. "With more than 70 percent of the CDC's budget directly supporting state and local health efforts, including disease prevention efforts, any disruptions will have catastrophic consequences for outbreak response and prevention." The U.S. representatives are asking Monarez to answer these questions and wants a response by Tuesday. What specific actions has the CDC taken in coordination with the Texas DSHS to mitigate the measles outbreak in Texas? How have recent reductions in the number of CDC personnel impacted the agency's capacity to respond effectively to the ongoing disease outbreak? Have DOGE's efforts, particularly the disruption of federal resources, interfered with funding flows to Texas state and local health departments in their fight against this outbreak? How does the CDC plan to uphold its mission to remain science-based and data-driven, contrary to the dangerous and misleading comments made by Kennedy regarding measles and the safety of the MMR vaccine? Has CDC leadership advocated against proposals to cut the agency's budget, and do you acknowledge that any reduction in funding would significantly weaken the nation's public health infrastructure, particularly in responding to infectious disease outbreaks? The measles vaccine is known as the MMR vaccine: measles, mumps and rubella (the latter is also known as German measles). It is a live vaccine and should not be given to pregnant women or some people with autoimmune issues, including those who are undergoing treatment for cancer. Most children are vaccinated with the first dose when they turn 1. A second dose is given between ages 4 and 6. A second dose can be given as soon as 28 days after the first dose. A first dose of the vaccine can start giving someone some protection within 72 hours and can be used to fight a measles exposure. A first dose provides about 93% protection after two weeks. After the second dose, a person has 97% protection. For people who have been exposed, they can receive immunoglobulin within six days of an exposure to fight the virus. People born before 1957 are presumed to have immunity because of the amount of measles that was present during that time. People born after that time need to make sure they have been vaccinated with two doses. If you were born between 1957 and 1968, you might not have immunity because the vaccine at the time didn't use a live virus. Vaccine protection does wane over time. You can get a blood test to check your immunity level to be sure. If you have been pregnant in the last 30 years, you have already had your titer check for rubella, which is in the MMR vaccine and would have been told if you did not have immunity. For vaccinations, contact your primary care provider or you can go through Austin Public Health. You can get vaccinated as an adult if you have not been vaccinated previously. Austin Public Health offers vaccinations for free or at reduced rates for children and adults who do not have insurance, have Medicaid or are underinsured. The typical cost is $13 for children and $25 for adults. You can make an appointment at 512-972-5520 for the clinics at 405 W. Stassney Lane in South Austin or 7500 Blessing Avenue in Northeast Austin. This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: US Rep. Lloyd Doggett asks CDC about Texas measles outbreak response
Yahoo
31-01-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
‘Know your rights.' Near high school, Fort Worth congressman answers concerns about ICE raids
A 'Know Your Rights' table was set up Thursday across from North Side High School by Congressman Marc Veasey to inform families about their legal options if detained by ICE, and address community anxiety after a substitute teacher made a social media post inviting immigration officers to the Fort Worth high school to arrest students. Veasey along with constituent service representative Maria Robles answered various questions that concerned community members, educators and parents had on Thursday afternoon, Jan. 30. 'I am an educator at elementary school. What should I do?' 'I have a legal permanent residence. Will I face consequences?' 'Can ICE raid community gatherings at parks?' These were some of the questions posed as members of the north side community gathered around the table. 'I know that after that substitute teacher made those idiotic comments that a lot of people in this community, that have kids at this school, had a lot of fear and uncertainty about exactly what was happening,' said Veasey, a Democrat who represents Texas' 33rd Congressional District. He said he wants people to know their rights when they are detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Veasey said if someone gets detained they have a right to legal counsel, and there are certain procedures that have to take place before they are deported. ICE has been posting statistics on the number of arrests nationwide each day. The most recent numbers showed 1,016 arrests were made and 814 detainers were lodged on Jan. 29. 'They're not about to deport all the people that they're saying because it would drive a massive hole in the economy,' Veasey said. 'We wouldn't be able to produce any oil and gas, there would be no homes built in the state, no food that would be processed. Our farms would go dry,' 'I'm urging people to know your rights, but then asking the president, instead of playing these stupid, ignorant games, bring Democrats and Republicans together, and let's come up with a real solution to this, and not this made up for TV crap,' Veasey said. On display at the event were templates of what a search warrant signed by a judge looks like compared to a search warrant signed by ICE officials. And privacy release forms for ICE that community members with the help of government offices can use to inquire about people arrested or detained. 'We need a secure border, but until you do something about the economical piece of this, then you're not going to have a secure border, it's just not going to happen,' Veasey said. 'I want parents that are worried to be able to have this information and sit down and talk with their kids, just in case their kids come home and they're not there, so their kids can at least have some peace of mind just by being able to talk about these things now — just in case this thing gets really, really bad,' he said. Robles, the congressman's constituent service representative, said community members can also use the Executive Office for Immigration Review website to download and print privacy release forms. To 'ease that anxiety of not knowing where their loved ones are, they could print it out and get a copy, fill it out, and then at a later time, use it as needed,' she said. Robles said there has been a lot of misinformation on social media so they want to make sure they provide clear and accurate information. 'We're still a nation that has a constitution, that has a judicial system. Not everything is lost, and we can't just give up,' Robles said. 'So as a person that knows some of these things, it's really heartwarming to be able to share and then see in their faces that fear may come down a bit.' A 34-year-old woman from the Fort Worth Riverside area who opted to remain anonymous was there to get some answers about specific questions that are in the minds of community members, she told the Star-Telegram. 'At this moment, we have national, statewide and local policies that are impacting our migrant, immigrant communities, Black and brown people, and it's very complex, so it can be very confusing and intimidating for regular people to try to find out what the solution is or find help,' she said. 'It only continues to strike distrust and fear between regular people and those in elected power and elected leadership,' she said. 'We should have been doing this before Trump was even elected, or inaugurated.'
