A Texas judge has temporarily blocked Beto O’Rourke and his nonprofit, Powered by People, from fundraising in support of Democratic lawmakers who fled the state to halt GOP redistricting efforts.

The ruling came from Judge Megan Fahey, who issued a temporary restraining order after determining that the group’s fundraising violated state law. The money reportedly covered personal expenses such as travel and lodging for the lawmakers.

The decision followed a request from Attorney General Ken Paxton, who argued that O’Rourke’s organization was unlawfully providing financial assistance to legislators who had left Texas during the dispute.

As part of the order, Powered by People is prohibited from raising or distributing additional funds to the lawmakers until the case moves forward in court.

O’Rourke, a former congressman and Democratic candidate for governor, strongly criticized the ruling. He described it as a partisan maneuver designed to weaken political opposition and discourage activism in Texas.

“This is nothing more than a political attack,” O’Rourke said, vowing to continue fighting the case. He has since filed a countersuit, accusing Paxton of conducting what he called a “fishing expedition.”

Paxton, meanwhile, celebrated the court’s decision. On social media, he declared victory, labeling the case “Beto Bribes” and insisting his office was protecting state law and taxpayer integrity.

The legal battle highlights the ongoing clash between Texas Republicans and Democrats over voting rights, redistricting, and political strategy. With both sides digging in, the dispute is likely to remain a flashpoint in the state’s already heated political climate.