Texas GOP Gerrymandering Cuts Democratic Seats, Removes LGBTQ+ Congress Member

Texas Republicans have redrawn congressional districts in a plan supported by the Trump administration, aiming to add five new Republican seats, which critics argue undermines fair representation and targets Democratic incumbents, including the state's only openly LGBTQ+ U.S. Representative, Julie Johnson. Johnson condemned the maps as a 'corrupt power grab' designed to protect Trump and maintain Republican control, warning that the new districts could dismantle fair representation and split her district across multiple others. California officials, including State Senator Akilah Weber Pierson, M.D., have vocally opposed Texas' redistricting efforts, citing concerns about their broader impact on democratic processes and the economic well-being of communities beyond Texas. Meanwhile, Texas State Rep. Briscoe Cain, a Trump supporter, announced his candidacy for the newly redrawn 9th Congressional District, emphasizing his alignment with MAGA values and conservative voters. The redistricting debate has prompted calls for countermeasures, such as California’s proposal to add five Democratic seats, aiming to offset Texas’ Republican gains and protect fair representation. These developments highlight ongoing partisan tensions over gerrymandering and the political future of Texas and neighboring states.