Fort Bend County commissioners approve new precinct map after heated debate
A divided Fort Bend County Commissioners Court voted 3–2 on Monday to adopt a new mid‑decade precinct map meant to rebalance the county’s political lines — but not before a contentious special meeting that at times descended into full‑blown arguments.
A divided Fort Bend County Commissioners Court voted 3–2 on Monday to adopt a new mid‑decade precinct map meant to rebalance the county’s political lines — but not before a contentious special meeting that at times descended into full‑blown arguments.
Supporters say the new map evens the political playing field by creating two precincts that lean Republican and two that lean Democrat. Critics counter that the map amounts to “packing” Democratic voters into certain precincts and could split minority communities.
The meeting grew heated early and often.
Judge K.P. George repeatedly had to slam the gavel and call for order as commissioners clashed with one another and, at one point, with law enforcement officers on the floor.
More than two dozen community members signed up to speak and several urged the court to either adopt the changes or slow down and reconsider.
“It’s time to do the right thing. The 2021 map was wrong and everyone knows it,” one speaker said.
Another warned, “I urge that you do not rush into a decision that you will probably regret.”
Two commissioners, Dexter McCoy and Grady Prestage, voted against the measure.
“These new maps fracture established communities and prioritize political gain over fair representation. In their effort to engineer two white plurality precincts, the GOP majority has disregarded our county’s rich diversity, the very fabric of Fort Bend’s identity. The voices of minority residents have been undervalued in this process,” said Commissioner McCoy. “I voted against these maps because I believe in honest, transparent policies that reflect the people. Moving forward, I will continue to fight for accountability and equity for every resident of Fort Bend County.”
They pushed to remove language in the court’s order that described the 2020–21 maps as unlawful — language tied to concerns that race was used in drawing precinct lines.
Opponents argued that including the wording could invite legal challenges against the county.
Supporters countered that the finding was an accurate reflection of prior concerns and necessary to move forward.
After public comment and heated exchanges, the court approved the mid‑decade redistricting map by a 3–2 vote.
County officials say the changes are intended to better reflect population shifts since the last map.
“Today Commissioners Court took action to correct what had been a flawed process that resulted in an illegal map that did not meet state and federal statutes. Today’s action/decision also more fairly reflects the political makeup of Fort Bend County voters - roughly 50% Republican and 50% Democrat,” said Commissioner Andy Meyers in a written statement.
The decision may not be the last word.
Legal observers and community members said they will be watching closely to see whether the wording in the court’s order or the map itself prompts litigation.
For now, the new precinct map is adopted. Officials and residents will have to wait to see how the changes affect elections and community representation in Fort Bend County.
