In addition to the secession myth, Texans always brag about how they could theoretically divide their state into...

In addition to the secession myth, Texans always brag about how they could theoretically divide their state into five separate states. This would, of course, be a disaster creating eight more Senators from Texas, among other horrible consequences. I kind of wish our forefathers had drive a harder bargain and also allowed the rest of the states to divide Texas up and redistribute it. The Panhandle by culture fits in better with Oklahoma and should be a part of that state.  Similarly, East Texas makes more sense as a part of Arkansas. West Texas should become part of New Mexico (Marfa by itself would balance out the southern New Mexico/northern New Mexico arts and culture scene so long dominated by Santa and Taos, and the Big Bend area just fits better in NM). North Texas can remain Texas, or abandon the baggage-laden "Texas" brand entirely and just call itself "Dallas". The strip from Austin through San Marcos and New Braunfels to San Antonio can also be given statehood.  The rest of south Texas should be returned to territorial status. 

Politically, I think it would be a wash. Dallas/Texas would probably elect just-barely more progressive Republicans; West Texas would probably make New Mexico red (at least in the short-term), but Austin conceivably could give us more progressives.  The Panhandle couldn't make Oklahoma any worse than it already is; same goes for East Texas/Arkansas. I think it's a good plan.