Texas and California — the two most populous American states — are taking center stage as this week marks a critical moment in an unprecedented national fight over congressional redistricting, with the outcome likely shaping control of the US House for the remainder of President Donald Trump’s term.
Texas Republicans Push Forward Amid Democrat Boycott
After a halt led by over 50 Texas Democratic lawmakers fleeing the state to prevent a quorum, the GOP-controlled legislature is now set to move forward with new congressional maps. The special session resumed Friday, and Democrats are expected to return as soon as Monday, according to a report published by The Associated Press Monday.
House Speaker Dustin Burrows expressed optimism that the chamber could reach a quorum when it reconvenes, allowing the legislative process to approve the maps to begin. This includes committee review, debates, and floor votes. The Senate is conducting public hearings and will take similar steps.
The GOP’s proposed redistricting, the report said, would create five new districts favourable to Republicans and President Trump, potentially forcing Democratic incumbents Greg Casar and Lloyd Doggett to compete against each other.
California Democrats Launch Fast Counterattack
Meanwhile, California Democrats are preparing a bold legislative move to redraw their own congressional boundaries, hoping to gain five additional seats and counteract Texas’s efforts. The legislation, set to be introduced Monday with a possible final vote by Thursday, would require voter approval to override the state’s independent redistricting commission, the report said.
Since the process involves amending the state constitution, a two-thirds majority in both chambers is necessary. Democrats hold comfortable majority with three-quarters of seats. The California Assembly and Senate will return from summer recess on Monday to resume work.
Texas Democrats Prepare to Fight
Texas Democrats, for their part, have said that they will oppose the GOP maps on the floor and are planning to challenge the process legally. They claim that their initial walkout brought national attention to the issue and helped inspire California’s countermeasure, along with calls from other Democratic states.
However, their options appear limited as Governor Greg Abbott has vowed to call repeated special sessions until the maps pass.
Opposition and Support Within California
California Republicans, though limited in power, are closely watching Democrats’ moves, with Governor Gavin Newsom reported to be preparing a statewide campaign to support the referendum.
However, some notable opposition has emerged. Former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger voiced resistance against gerrymandering, and Charles Munger Jr, a major supporter of California’s independent redistricting commission, took it upon himself to fight the Democratic-led effort, warning against “stooping” to Texas’ tactics.
The League of Women Voters has opposed the push, while Common Cause has expressed openness to “counterbalancing” redistricting that is transparent, public-driven, and temporary.
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