What to know about 'Fight the Trump Takeover' rallies
audacy.com -- Saturday, August 16, 2025, 7:27:08 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: State Politics & Governors, U.S. Elections & Voting Rights, Public Opinion & Polling

Rallies were held in cities across the U.S. Saturday for the "Fight the Trump Takeover National Day of Action" focused on concerns about redistricting.
"Trump is trying to steal the 2026 election by rigging the system and changing electoral maps," said a website established for the rallies. "He started in Texas, but he won't stop there. We are fighting back."
KRLD 1080 has reported on the redistricting situation in Texas, where House Democrats have spoken out about issue and are blocking quorum to prevent it. This Thursday, Texas House Democratic Caucus Chair Gene Wu said the party successfully mobilized the entire nation against what he called Trump's "assault on minority voting rights."
Lawmakers from Texas and Indiana met Thursday in Chicago, Ill., to oppose Republican-led redistricting measures and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton asked an Illinois judge to compel them to return to Austin. That judge declined. Texas Democrats have said that redistricting efforts in their state would flip five seats to Republicans. In Indiana, Vice President JD Vance has also met with the governor over redistricting issues.
"Hoosiers don't want these top-down directives from DC to rig our elections. Redrawing the lines mid-decade is cheating, and Hoosiers know it," said the Indiana Democratic party in a Friday X post.
According to an event description for a Saturday rally in New York, "Trump isn't stopping in Texas. He's targeting Missouri, Ohio, Florida, and every state he can twist to help him steal Congress next year. States like California and New York are starting to fight back."
California Gov. Gavin Newsom Thursday announced "statewide" actions to fight against "Trump's attempts to rig Texas' elections next year." Earlier this month, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul announced that her state stands with Texas lawmakers.
Experts have also warned about redistricting ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Dave Wasserman, senior editor of The Cook Political Report with Amy Walter, told NBC's "Meet the Press" this week: "This has the potential to be the gerrymandering apocalypse we all feared."
Wasserman also said that: "Republicans are obviously desperate to hold their majority. They know that President Trump's approval rating is not great, the bill they passed isn't that popular. So, adding insurance and piling on sandbags to their very thin majority - the only way they can do that is by redistricting."
If Republicans manage to redistrict in their target states, it could triple the "Republican cushion" going into 2026, Wasserman said. He explained that Democrats in California are fighting back with their own map that puts Republican seats there in peril, hoping it will make Republicans dial back their efforts in Texas.
Generally, the political party in power in the White House typically doesn't do well in the midterms. However, that wasn't true in 2022, when Democrats did fairly well when former President Joe Biden was in office.
Sign Our PetitionThe recent "Fight the Trump Takeover National Day of Action" rallies across the United States signify a crucial moment in the ongoing struggle for democracy, particularly in the face of redistricting efforts that many view as an assault on electoral integrity. The rallies, mobilized in response to the alarming trend of gerrymandering, particularly in states like Texas, highlight a broader concern regarding the manipulation of electoral boundaries to entrench political power. Historical precedents show that such tactics are not new; they echo the long-standing practice of redistricting used throughout American history to suppress minority voting rights and maintain control by dominant political parties.
The current situation in Texas serves as a flashpoint for these struggles. The Texas House Democrats’ decision to block quorum showcases a strategic resistance against what they see as an existential threat to democratic representation. Their actions, as articulated by House Democratic Caucus Chair Gene Wu, demonstrate an acute awareness of the historical context in which such battles take place. The fight against gerrymandering is intertwined with the civil rights movement, where the struggle for equitable representation was fought not just in the courts but also through grassroots mobilization. The parallels are striking: just as previous generations fought against Jim Crow laws that disenfranchised Black voters, today’s activists are battling against a system that seeks to dilute the power of minority communities through deliberate redistricting.
Moreover, the rhetoric surrounding these rallies underscores the urgency of the matter. The assertion that Trump is "trying to steal the 2026 election" by manipulating electoral maps resonates deeply within a historical framework of political manipulation. This is not merely about party politics; it is about preserving the fundamental democratic principle of fair representation. The emphasis on "rigging the system" reflects a growing recognition that electoral strategies have profound implications for social justice. When electoral maps are drawn to favor one party over another, marginalized communities often bear the brunt of these decisions, exacerbating existing inequalities and disenfranchisement.
The involvement of figures such as Indiana Vice President JD Vance and the response from state officials like California's Governor Gavin Newsom and New York’s Governor Kathy Hochul illustrate a national dialogue about the necessity of safeguarding democratic processes. The coalition-building across state lines hints at a broader movement that recognizes the interconnectedness of these struggles. When states like California and New York assert their intent to combat these redistricting efforts, they are signaling a commitment to an inclusive democracy that resists top-down directives aimed at manipulating electoral outcomes. This collective action is crucial, as it not only rallies resources but also aligns the efforts of various states against a common adversary, reminiscent of the historical alliances forged during civil rights campaigns.
Finally, the warnings from political analysts like Dave Wasserman regarding a potential "gerrymandering apocalypse" should not be taken lightly. These insights remind us that the stakes are high. The potential to triple the Republican cushion in the House through strategic redistricting could have devastating effects on progressive legislation and the very fabric of democracy. It is vital for activists and everyday citizens alike to recognize that this fight is not just about the next election; it is about the long-term health of our democratic institutions. Therefore, the rallies are not merely a response to immediate threats but are part of a larger narrative of resistance against systemic injustice. Continuing to draw connections between current events and historical struggles for equality will equip individuals with the necessary context to engage in these important conversations about democracy and representation.
The recent rallies dubbed "Fight the Trump Takeover National Day of Action" reflect a growing concern among many Americans regarding the integrity of the electoral process, particularly in light of redistricting practices that may undermine democracy. The assertion that former President Trump is attempting to "steal the 2026 election" by manipulating electoral maps is not merely hyperbole; it highlights a systemic issue that has plagued American politics for decades. Redistricting, often viewed as a mundane administrative task, has been weaponized by political parties to entrench their power, and in the current climate, this has significant implications for minority voting rights and fair representation.
Historically, gerrymandering has been a tool for both major political parties, but its consequences have disproportionately affected communities of color and underrepresented groups. The term itself refers to the practice of drawing district boundaries in a way that gives one party an advantage over another, often resulting in oddly shaped districts that do not reflect the geographic or demographic realities of the population. In Texas, for example, the fight over redistricting has intensified, with Democrats using quorum-breaking tactics to delay the implementation of maps that could potentially flip multiple congressional seats to Republicans. This pushback is crucial, as it exemplifies a grassroots resistance to a more significant national trend — the consolidation of power through systemic manipulation.
As Americans concerned about the integrity of our electoral process, there are several avenues through which we can mobilize and take action. First and foremost, it is essential to engage in local politics and advocate for fair redistricting practices. This means supporting independent commissions that draw district lines rather than allowing partisan legislatures to do so. States like California have taken steps toward this model, and the positive outcomes of these reforms can serve as a blueprint for others. Grassroots organizing, such as participating in local rallies, can also amplify the voices of constituents demanding transparency and accountability from their elected officials.
Moreover, education plays a pivotal role in this fight. It is vital to inform our communities about the implications of gerrymandering and the importance of preserving minority voting rights. By fostering discussions about the historical context of redistricting and its impact on civic engagement, we empower individuals to advocate for their rights and hold their representatives accountable. Educational initiatives can include workshops, town halls, and collaborations with civic organizations to ensure that the electorate is well-informed and capable of resisting oppressive practices.
Finally, we must maintain pressure on our elected officials at all levels to prioritize electoral reform. This means supporting legislation that promotes voting rights, such as the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, which seeks to restore protections against discriminatory practices. Additionally, engaging with policymakers, initiating petitions, and leveraging social media platforms to raise awareness can create a groundswell of support for reforms that protect the electoral process from partisan manipulation.
In conclusion, the "Fight the Trump Takeover" rallies serve as a critical reminder of the ongoing struggle for democratic integrity in the United States. As we witness attempts to rig elections through redistricting, it is incumbent upon us as citizens to remain vigilant and proactive. By advocating for fair practices, educating our communities, and holding our leaders accountable, we can ensure that the democratic ideals upon which this nation was founded are preserved and strengthened for future generations. By uniting in this effort, we can collectively push back against the forces that seek to undermine our democracy.
**Personal Actions to Combat Redistricting Efforts**
1. **Educate Yourself and Others**: - **Action**: Stay informed about redistricting and gerrymandering. Share knowledge with friends, family, and community members to raise awareness about these issues. - **Example**: Host a community discussion or a book club focusing on voting rights, redistricting, and democracy.
2. **Support Local and National Organizations**: - **Action**: Contribute time, skills, or money to organizations fighting against gerrymandering and advocating for fair voting practices. - **Examples**: - **Common Cause**: They focus on voting rights and fair districting. Visit their website to find volunteer opportunities or donate: [Common Cause](https://www.commoncause.org) - **League of Women Voters**: Get involved in local chapters that work to educate voters and advocate for fair redistricting. Check their website for local chapters.
3. **Participate in Rallies and Protests**: - **Action**: Join local demonstrations or rallies that advocate against unfair redistricting practices. Engage with others who share your concerns. - **Example**: Look for events like the "Fight the Trump Takeover National Day of Action" in your area or similar events organized by local advocacy groups.
4. **Petition for Fair Redistricting**: - **Action**: Start or sign petitions calling for fair redistricting practices in your state. - **Example**: Visit platforms like [Change.org](https://www.change.org) to find existing petitions or create your own. Topics can include demanding transparency in redistricting processes.
5. **Contact Elected Officials**: - **Action**: Write to your state representatives and express your concerns about redistricting efforts. - **Example Contacts**: - **Gene Wu (Texas House Democratic Caucus Chair)**: Email: gene.wu@house.texas.gov, Mailing address: Texas House of Representatives, P.O. Box 2910, Austin, TX 78768. - **Kathy Hochul (Governor of New York)**: Email: info@gov.ny.gov, Mailing address: NY State Capitol, Albany, NY 12224. - **Gavin Newsom (Governor of California)**: Email: governor@gov.ca.gov, Mailing address: 1021 O Street, Suite 900, Sacramento, CA 95814. - **What to Say**: Express your concerns about gerrymandering and the impact it has on democracy. Ask them to support fair redistricting efforts and hold accountable those who attempt to manipulate electoral boundaries for partisan gain.
6. **Engage in Local Politics**: - **Action**: Attend city council or state legislature meetings to voice your concerns and participate in discussions about redistricting. - **Example**: Check the websites of your local city council or state assembly for meeting schedules. Prepare comments to share during public comment periods.
7. **Utilize Social Media**: - **Action**: Use platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to raise awareness about redistricting and mobilize others to take action. - **Example**: Share articles, host live discussions, or create infographics that explain the importance of fair redistricting practices.
8. **Promote and Support Independent Redistricting Commissions**: - **Action**: Advocate for the establishment of independent commissions to oversee redistricting in your state. - **Example**: Research what organizations are working on this issue in your state and support their campaigns. You can also reach out to state legislators to encourage them to support such measures.
9. **Volunteer for Election Protection**: - **Action**: Sign up to be a volunteer for organizations that monitor elections and ensure fair voting practices. - **Example**: Check out [Election Protection](https://866ourvote.org) for volunteer opportunities.
By taking these actions, individuals can contribute to a broader movement aimed at ensuring fair representation and protecting voting rights in their communities. Each effort, no matter how small, can collectively lead to significant changes in the political landscape.