California Republicans Sue To Block Newsom Gerrymandering Plan

California Governor Gavin Newsom is pushing a plan to redraw the state's congressional maps in response to Texas Republicans' mid-decade redistricting aimed at increasing GOP seats and supporting President Donald Trump's 2026 election strategy. Newsom's proposal would transfer redistricting authority from the state's independent commission to the Legislature via a statewide referendum, seeking to neutralize the GOP's expected gains by increasing Democratic advantages in California. Republicans have filed lawsuits challenging the process, arguing that Democrats violated the state's constitution by circumventing the required 30-day public review period through a 'gut and amend' tactic on unrelated bills, and are demanding the California Supreme Court block the redistricting effort. The controversy highlights a broader national battle over gerrymandering, with Newsom's plan facing criticism for reducing transparency and public input, while Republicans accuse Democrats of orchestrating a backroom deal to further entrench their power despite California's already strong Democratic representation. Newsom defends the move as necessary to counteract Republican efforts in Texas, though political analysts express skepticism about its legal and political viability given the state's constitutional protections and public sentiment.