Gerald DeMarsh appeals the dismissal of his 42 U.S.C. § 1983 claims as frivolous and/or barred by Heck v. Humphrey, 512 U.S. 477, 114 S.Ct. 2364, 129 L.Ed.2d 383 (1994). DeMarsh filed a motion to expedite this appeal. He argues that the magistrate judge and the district court acted improperly and that he has a right to self-representation.

Although we liberally construe pro se briefs, see Haines v. Kerner, 404 U.S. 519, 520, 92 S.Ct. 594, 30 L.Ed.2d 652 (1972), even pro se litigants must brief arguments in order to preserve them. See Yohey v. Collins, 985 F.2d 222, 224-25 (5th Cir. 1993). By failing to discuss the district court’s rationale for dismissing his complaint, DeMarsh has abandoned the issue, and it is the same as if he had not appealed the judgment. See Brinkmann v. Dallas County Deputy Sheriff Abner, 813 F.2d 744, 748 (5th Cir. 1987). This appeal is without merit and is dismissed as frivolous. See Howard v. King, 707 F.2d 215, 219-20 (5th Cir. 1983); 5th Cir. R. 42.2. The motion to expedite the appeal is denied.

APPEAL DISMISSED; MOTION DENIED.