3 Texas Dems test positive for COVID in D.C.

Three Democratic state lawmakers who left the state for Washington, D.C., last week have tested positive for COVID-19, the Texas House Democratic Caucus announced Saturday.

All three members are fully vaccinated, according to the caucus, which did not identify the lawmakers.

One member tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday night, followed by two members who tested positive on a rapid test Saturday morning, according to a statement from the caucus.

State Rep. Chris Turner, a Grand Prairie Democrat and chair of the caucus, said the members are following guidance and protocols issued by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“This is a sober reminder that COVID is still with us, and though vaccinations offer tremendous protection, we still must take necessary precautions,” Turner said. “Our caucus will follow all recommendations from public health experts as we continue our work.”

The CDC advises that fully vaccinated people who have been exposed to someone who tested positive for COVID-19 “do not need to quarantine, be restricted from work, or be tested following an exposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19, as their risk of infection is low.”

Members of the delegation have met with a number of top officials, including Vice President Kamala Harris and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, since fleeing the state Monday to block Texas Republicans’ elections bill.

It was not immediately clear which officials had been in direct contact with the state lawmakers who tested positive.