Texas Democrats, Newsom Escalate Redistricting Showdown

Texas Democratic lawmakers fled their state to prevent a Republican-led redistricting plan that could grant the GOP five additional Congressional seats, breaking quorum and halting legislative proceedings. The Democrats regrouped in California, where they met with Governor Gavin Newsom and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to strategize and discuss responses. Newsom has proposed a special election to let voters decide on a plan to redraw California's congressional districts, aiming to boost Democratic representation and offset likely Republican gains in Texas. The proposal requires legislative and voter approval and faces resistance, notably from former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. In response, Texas Republicans have sought arrest warrants for the absent Democrats, while California Republicans introduced a bill to ban mid-decade redistricting nationwide. The developments mark an escalation in national partisan battles over congressional control ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.