Redistricting battles are heating up as Texas Democrats return and California begins its own fight to counter GOP gains ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. (Photo: X/@TheDemocrats)
With Texas Democrats back from their two-week walkout, the battle over redistricting in the US is heating up again, this time with California Democrats jumping into the fray. The latest development comes as both parties are gearing up for the 2026 US midterm elections, where congressional control is on the line.
President Donald Trump has been vocal in his push for Republicans to redraw congressional maps in their favour. The GOP currently holds a narrow seven-seat majority in the House of Representatives, and Trump is determined to avoid a scenario where Democrats could block his agenda, according to a report published by The Associated Press Tuesday.
In Texas, where Republicans already hold 25 of 38 congressional seats, the GOP’s objective is to increase the tally to 30 seats. Meanwhile, California Democrats, who currently hold 43 out of 52 seats are hoping to boost their numbers to 48 seats in order to counterbalance any GOP gains in red states.
Despite having a Democratic supermajority, California’s redistricting process isn’t as straightforward. Since 2008, its congressional maps have been drawn by an independent commission as opposed to lawmakers, per the US based news agency.
To redraw the lines, California Democrats are now trying to bypass the commission by putting a proposal directly to voters in a special election this November, in a strategy aimed at avoiding legal pushback. However, time is of the essence in this case, especially given the legislature is only in session until September 12.
Texas Democrats had fled the state in protest, effectively stalling Republican efforts by denying the quorum needed to conduct business. While Republicans dominate both chambers, Texas law requires two-thirds of members to be present in the House in order to carry out proceedings — a hurdle they couldn’t overcome without Democrats.
The walkout turned out to be costly with lawmakers reportedly facing $500 per day fines, potential removal from office and personal pressures on account of them being away from home. Reports suggest their absence also delayed emergency aid for flood-ravaged areas in the Texas Hill Country.
Now that they are back, Republicans can resume their redistricting push, with Democrats turning their attention to California to prevent losing further ground.
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