The Texas House of Representatives approved a new congressional map on Wednesday, backed by former President Donald Trump, potentially giving Republicans up to five extra seats in the 2026 midterm elections. The vote passed strictly along party lines, 88-52.
The measure follows a dramatic showdown in the legislature, where over 50 Democratic lawmakers fled the state to block the redistricting by denying quorum. The state Senate had already passed a similar map earlier in the week, and the bill is expected to reach Governor Greg Abbott’s desk soon.
Trump has publicly urged the GOP to redraw districts, claiming the party is “entitled” to more seats after his 2024 performance in Texas.
Democrats Plan Counter-Redistricting Efforts
In response, California Governor Gavin Newsom and New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced plans to redraw congressional maps in their states to counterbalance potential GOP gains.
- California: Newsom and state Democrats published a proposal to redraw 52 congressional districts, aiming to help Democrats net five seats in the 2026 midterms. A special election in November will allow voters to approve the map.
- New York: Hochul has signaled her intent to act, keeping details under wraps, but emphasized she won’t let Texas tilt the congressional balance. New York currently sends 9 Republicans to the US House. California sends 7 Republicans.
Obama Backs Newsom’s Redistricting
Former President Barack Obama voiced support for Newsom’s efforts on X, despite generally opposing mid-decade redistricting. He stated:
“Over the long term, we shouldn’t have political gerrymandering in America—just a fair fight between Republicans and Democrats based on who has better ideas. But since Texas is engaging in partisan mid-decade redistricting to try to maintain control of the House despite unpopular policies, I have tremendous respect for how Governor Newsom has handled this. He’s proposed a smart, measured approach in California to address a very specific problem at a very specific time.”
Over the long term, we shouldn’t have political gerrymandering in America, just a fair fight between Republicans and Democrats based on who’s got better ideas. But since Texas is taking direction from a partisan White House and gerrymandering in the middle of a decade to try and… https://t.co/6YeqWg6Zv3
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) August 20, 2025
Other GOP States May Follow Texas’ Lead
The White House and Trump are encouraging other Republican-controlled states to redraw districts to favor the GOP for next year’s midterms.
- Indiana: Potentially eliminating one or both Democratic House seats after VP Vance met with Governor Braun.
- Florida: Governor Ron DeSantis has started redistricting plans.
- Ohio and Missouri: Exploring similar measures.
This mid-decade redistricting is unusual, as congressional maps are traditionally drawn after the decennial census.
