Protesters resort to chains, fake blood, Twisted Sister as Texas Senate nears abortion vote

Brett T. | 11:13 PM on July 12, 2013

The originally scheduled vote on Texas’ ban on most abortions after 20 weeks was delayed after Sen. Wendy Davis’ 11-hour filibuster devolved into a midnight scream-fest. The Texas legislature was reconvened for a special session, and the state Senate closed in on another vote tonight. After 19 proposed amendments to the legislation were voted down and senators prepared for a final vote, pro-abortion protesters began chaining themselves to a railing in the gallery.

Several protesters carried from the senate gallery by DPS officers, with one of them singing All we are saying is give us a choice. #txlege

— Josh Rubin (@jrubin) July 13, 2013

Senate at standstill as DPS officers try to unchain lone protester. #txlege pic.twitter.com/ztjx2UWdFE

— Josh Rubin (@jrubin) July 13, 2013

DPS moving in with bolt cutters. As several move protesters yell out in chamber. #txlege

— Josh Rubin (@jrubin) July 13, 2013

Troopers use bolt cutters to unchain a protester from Senate gallery railing. (Photo by Rodolfo Gonzalez) #txlege pic.twitter.com/TbABjGvRGt

— Austin Statesman (@statesman) July 13, 2013

Others resorted instead to a sing-along of Twisted Sister’s “We’re Not Gonna Take It.”

Outside the Senate chamber #txlege #hb2 https://t.co/KJEdpDSpu9

— Kolten Parker (@KoltenParker) July 13, 2013

The #TXlege may not be listening. But do you think they can hear us now? #standwithtxwomen https://t.co/U7bNU71M3C

— Planned Parenthood Action (@PPact) July 13, 2013

Another batch donned gowns stained with fake blood.