Texas Republicans plan another redistricting session. California Democrats will counter
thepeterboroughexaminer.com -- Friday, August 15, 2025, 12:28:08 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: Federal Legislation & Congress, Democratic Party Responses, Presidential Campaigns
AUSTIN, Texas (AP) -- Texas Republicans ended a legislative session Friday without approving new congressional maps, but they still intend to satisfy President Donald Trump's wishes for redistricting that bolsters their party ahead of the 2026 midterm elections as a multistate fight over control of Congress intensifies.
After Democrats thwarted Texas Republicans' redistricting plan with their absence during a special session, Gov. Greg Abbott, a Trump ally, was expected to quickly call another special session in Austin.
Meanwhile, California Democrats plan to release a proposal for new maps aimed at countering any Republican gains in Texas.
The nation's two most populous states have been at the forefront of a partisan battle that has reached into multiple courtrooms and statehouses controlled by both parties, with the balance of Capitol Hill and Trump's agenda at stake for the latter half of his second presidency.
Texas Democrats who left the state nearly two weeks ago have denied their Republican colleagues the required attendance to conduct business and vote on Trump's redistricting agenda. But they have said they would to return to Austin for another session once California Democrats release a new plan that they've been shaping behind closed doors.
"Do not go very far, as I believe our governor will be calling us back for another special session very soon," Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows said during a brief session Friday morning before lawmakers adjourned.
Burros said Abbott was expected to act at noon CDT.
Fight has gone national
In California, Gov. Gavin Newsom said Thursday that his state will hold a Nov. 4 special election to seek approval of redrawn districts intended to give Democrats five more U.S. House seats.
"We can't stand back and watch this democracy disappear district by district all across the country," Newsom said at what amounted to a campaign kickoff rally for the as-yet unreleased maps. "We are not bystanders in this world. We can shape the future."
Newsom's announcement marked the first time any state beyond Texas has officially waded into the mid-decade redistricting fight, though several governors and legislative leaders from both parties have threatened such moves. The Texas plan was stalled when minority Democrats went to Illinois, New York and Massachusetts on Aug. 3 to stop the Legislature from passing any bills.
Trump has urged other Republican-run states to redraw maps, even dispatching Vice President JD Vance to Indiana to press officials there. In Missouri, a document obtained by The Associated Press shows the state Senate received a $46,000 invoice to activate six redistricting software licenses and provide training for up to 10 staff members. Florida legislative leaders have suggested they will consider redistricting in the fall.
Newsom encouraged other Democratic-led states to get involved.
"We need to stand up -- not just California. Other blue states need to stand up," Newsom said.
House control could come down to a few seats in 2026
Republicans hold a 219-212 majority in the House, with four vacancies. New maps are typically drawn once a decade after the census is conducted. Many states, including Texas, give legislators the power to draw maps. California is among states that rely on an independent commission that is supposed to be nonpartisan.
The California map would take effect only if a Republican state moves forward, and it would remain through the 2030 elections. After that, Democrats say they would return mapmaking power to the independent commission approved by voters more than a decade ago.
In Los Angeles, Newsom and others depicted the looming battle as a conflict with all things Trump, tying it explicitly to the fate of American democracy.
"Donald Trump, you have poked the bear, and we will punch back," said Newsom, a possible 2028 presidential contender.
Some people already have said they would sue to block the effort.
"Gavin Newsom's latest stunt has nothing to do with Californians and everything to do with consolidating radical Democrat power, silencing California voters, and propping up his pathetic 2028 presidential pipe dream," National Republican Congressional Committee spokesperson Christian Martinez said in a statement. "Newsom's made it clear: he'll shred California's Constitution and trample over democracy -- running a cynical, self-serving playbook where Californians are an afterthought and power is the only priority."
California Democrats hold 43 of the state's 52 House seats.
Lawmakers must officially declare the special election, which they plan to do next week after voting on the new maps. Democrats hold supermajorities in both chambers -- enough to act without any Republican votes.
___
Nguyễn reported from Sacramento, California, Blood reported from Los Angeles and Barrow reported from Atlanta. Associated Press writer David Lieb in Jefferson City, Missouri, contributed.
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Sign Our PetitionThe ongoing battle over redistricting in Texas and California serves as a vivid illustration of the broader ideological conflicts that are reshaping the American political landscape. With Texas Republicans pushing a redistricting agenda aligned with the interests of former President Donald Trump, while California Democrats are mobilizing in response, the stakes are high—not just for the future of their respective states, but for the integrity of democratic governance nationwide. This conflict underscores the historical significance of redistricting as a tool of both empowerment and disenfranchisement, a reality that demands attention in the current discourse surrounding electoral policy.
Historically, redistricting has been a mechanism through which political parties consolidate power, often at the expense of fair representation. The practice, which occurs every ten years following the census, can be manipulated to create “safe” districts that entrench incumbents. In Texas, the Republican-led efforts to redraw congressional maps reflect a long-standing strategy to maximize electoral advantages, a tactic that has roots in the post-Reconstruction era when Southern states employed similar methods to dilute the voting power of African Americans and other marginalized communities. This manipulation not only impacts electoral outcomes but also exacerbates social inequalities, as underrepresented groups find their voices marginalized in the political arena.
The recent actions of Texas Democrats, who left the state to deny their Republican counterparts the quorum needed to pass redistricting legislation, highlight the lengths to which political actors will go to resist undemocratic practices. Their strategic absence is not merely a tactical maneuver; it is a manifestation of a broader struggle against a political system that increasingly prioritizes partisan gain over democratic integrity. By invoking historical precedents of civil disobedience and resistance, such as those seen during the civil rights movement, Texas Democrats are not only fighting for their party's interests but also standing up for the principles of representation and equity.
On the other side of the country, Governor Gavin Newsom’s announcement of a special election in California to counter Republican advances in Texas demonstrates the urgency with which Democrats are responding to this national crisis of representation. His assertion that "we can't stand back and watch this democracy disappear" speaks to a pivotal moment in American politics, where the very foundations of democratic governance are being contested. Newsom's proactive stance emphasizes that redistricting is not simply a matter of electoral strategy; it is fundamentally about the preservation of democratic norms and the safeguarding of civil rights. By proposing new maps designed to increase Democratic representation, California is positioning itself as a bulwark against the encroachment of Republican power, echoing historical instances where states have acted to defend democratic principles against more regressive forces.
The national implications of these redistricting battles cannot be overstated. As states like Florida and Indiana consider their own redistricting measures, the potential for a coordinated Republican effort to reshape congressional districts nationwide is alarming. This extends beyond mere electoral machinations; it touches upon broader societal issues such as voter suppression, racial justice, and economic inequality. The push against gerrymandering and for fair representation connects to ongoing social movements that advocate for the rights of marginalized communities, including people of color, the LGBTQ+ community, and low-income individuals. As we witness this clash of ideologies unfold, it is imperative to recognize that the fight over redistricting is but one front in the larger struggle for social justice and democratic accountability.
In conclusion, the redistricting battles in Texas and California are emblematic of deeper societal tensions and the ongoing fight for equitable representation in American democracy. As political actors engage in this high-stakes contest, it is crucial to remember the historical context and the social implications of their actions. By understanding and articulating these connections, we can better engage in constructive dialogue about the future of our democratic institutions and advocate for policies that promote a more inclusive and just society. The current moment calls for vigilance and activism, as the outcomes of these redistricting efforts will shape not only the political landscape for years to come but also the very essence of what it means to participate in a democracy.
The ongoing battle over redistricting in Texas and California represents a critical flashpoint in the broader struggle for political power in the United States. As Texas Republicans seek to manipulate congressional maps to favor their party ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, California Democrats are stepping up to counteract these moves with their own proposals. This contest takes place against a backdrop of partisan polarization that has deepened over the past several decades, driven by demographic shifts, urban-rural divides, and, notably, the increasing influence of partisan gerrymandering.
Redistricting is not merely a technical process; it is a potent political tool that can shape the balance of power within Congress for years to come. Historically, both parties have utilized gerrymandering to entrench their control, often at the expense of fair representation. The current struggle highlights a national trend where state legislatures have become battlegrounds for political warfare, with both sides employing strategic maneuvers to secure electoral advantages. The Texas scenario, where Democrats fled the state to deny quorum, underscores a desperate but necessary tactic in the face of aggressive Republican tactics. This kind of resistance is not just about local governance; it is a stand for democratic integrity on a national level.
As engaged citizens, there are several actions we can take to address the ramifications of this redistricting showdown. First and foremost, it is essential to advocate for comprehensive reform of the redistricting process itself. Initiatives such as independent redistricting commissions can help remove political bias from the map-drawing process, ensuring fair representation for all voters, regardless of party affiliation. States like California have made strides in this direction, and it is imperative for voters to push for similar reforms in their own states. Engaging with local and state representatives to advocate for these changes can galvanize support and create a more equitable political landscape.
Additionally, it is crucial to stay informed and mobilize communities around this issue. Education is a powerful tool; understanding the intricacies of redistricting and how it affects local and national elections can empower citizens to take action. Organizing workshops, town halls, or discussion groups can facilitate dialogue on the implications of gerrymandering and the importance of fair representation. By building awareness, we can strengthen our collective voice and hold lawmakers accountable for their actions.
Moreover, supporting legal challenges against partisan redistricting is another avenue through which concerned citizens can engage. Organizations that fight for voting rights and fair representation need resources, whether through donations or volunteerism. The legal landscape surrounding redistricting is fraught with complexity, and grassroots support can bolster efforts to challenge unfair maps in court. Engaging in these legal battles ensures that the fight for justice continues on multiple fronts.
In conclusion, the confrontation between Texas Republicans and California Democrats over redistricting is emblematic of larger trends in American politics that threaten the very foundations of democracy. While the immediate actions may seem confined to state legislatures, they resonate on a national scale. As citizens, we must remain vigilant, advocate for reforms, educate ourselves and our communities, and support legal actions that promote fair representation. By doing so, we can actively participate in shaping a more just and equitable political future, countering efforts that seek to undermine our democratic principles.
The article highlights a significant political struggle over congressional redistricting in Texas and California, with implications for the broader national landscape. As citizens who are concerned about the impacts of this partisan battle on democracy and representation, there are several actions we can take to advocate for fair and equitable redistricting processes. Below is a detailed list of actionable steps we can personally engage in:
### Personal Actions
1. **Educate Yourself and Others** - Stay informed about the redistricting process and its implications. Share articles, webinars, and resources with friends and family. - Host discussions or community forums to raise awareness about the importance of fair representation.
2. **Support Local Advocacy Groups** - Join or support organizations that focus on voter rights and redistricting, such as the League of Women Voters or Common Cause. These groups often have campaigns and initiatives you can participate in.
3. **Participate in Public Meetings** - Attend town halls or public comment sessions where redistricting is discussed. This is an opportunity to voice your opinions and concerns.
4. **Contact Elected Officials** - Reach out to your state representatives and senators. Express your views on fair redistricting and the importance of transparency in the process.
### Specific Actions
1. **Petitions** - **Sign or Create Petitions**: Use platforms like Change.org or MoveOn.org to find existing petitions advocating for fair redistricting practices. You can also create your own petition.
2. **Write to Elected Officials** - **Who to Write**: - **Texas Governor Greg Abbott** - Email: https://www.gov.texas.gov/contact/ - Mailing Address: Office of the Governor, P.O. Box 12428, Austin, TX 78711-2428 - **California Governor Gavin Newsom** - Email: https://www.gov.ca.gov/contact/ - Mailing Address: Office of the Governor, 1303 10th Street, Suite 1173, Sacramento, CA 95814
- **What to Say**: - Express your concern about partisan gerrymandering and its impact on democracy. - Advocate for transparent and fair redistricting processes that prioritize community representation. - Urge them to consider and implement independent redistricting commissions to minimize partisan influence.
3. **Engage in Social Media Campaigns** - Use platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to raise awareness about redistricting issues. Share your thoughts on the importance of fair representation, using relevant hashtags to reach a wider audience.
4. **Coordinate with Local Activists** - Connect with local activist groups to participate in coordinated efforts, such as phone banks or letter-writing campaigns focused on legislative action regarding redistricting.
5. **Support Upcoming Elections** - Encourage participation in elections, particularly those concerning redistricting measures. Help organize voter registration drives and educate community members about the candidates' stances on fair redistricting.
6. **Monitor Legal Actions** - Stay informed about any legal challenges related to redistricting in your state. Support organizations that are filing lawsuits against unfair redistricting maps.
By taking these actions, individuals can play a crucial role in advocating for a more equitable political landscape. Engaging in dialogue, supporting advocacy efforts, and holding elected officials accountable are key steps toward ensuring that democracy prevails and that every voice is heard in the redistricting process.