Texas Republicans Advance Controversial Redistricting Plan Ahead 2026 Midterms

Texas Republicans, under pressure from President Donald Trump, have pushed through a controversial mid-decade redistricting plan aimed at creating five new GOP congressional seats ahead of the 2026 midterms. The plan, approved by the Texas House and expected to pass the state Senate, has sparked fierce opposition from Democrats and concerns about potential political backlash. Some GOP lawmakers and analysts now admit the map might backfire by making several districts more competitive, risking losses if the political climate turns against Trump and his party. Democratic governors in California and New York have signaled plans to redraw maps in their states in response, potentially escalating a nationwide redistricting battle. Utah Governor Spencer Cox criticized the escalating redistricting conflicts, warning that such actions could deepen political divides and increase toxicity in U.S. politics. The redistricting fight highlights the tension between parties over electoral control, with both sides accusing each other of gerrymandering and election interference.