AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Texas Republicans have restarted their efforts to push through redrawn U.S. House district maps, aiming to secure a greater GOP advantage heading into the 2026 midterm elections. This comes as state Democrats signaled their willingness to end a two-week walkout, which was initiated in response to the redistricting process that began on August 3. The Democratic lawmakers had relocated to Illinois to avoid participating in the session.
As Texas Republicans advance their redistricting agenda, California Democrats are also moving to reshape their congressional districts in a bid to counterbalance the changes emerging from Texas. This alignment suggests a potentially expansive and unusual battle over redistricting across the nation, as both parties seek to solidify their electoral footholds.
The redistricting process in Texas has been paused following the exit of dozens of Democratic lawmakers. However, with the conclusion of a special session by Republican Governor Greg Abbott, the Democrats have indicated they are ready to return to Austin. The Texas House was set to reconvene on Monday to try to establish a quorum to facilitate the redistricting discussions.
Governor Abbott has prioritized redistricting at the behest of President Donald Trump, who aims to strengthen Republican control in the U.S. House. Trump is concerned about maintaining the GOP’s narrow majority, as any loss of control could significantly hinder his conservative agenda as he approaches the latter part of his term.
It is relatively rare for redistricting to occur mid-decade; typically, it coincides with the decennial census. In many states, including Texas, the authority to redraw district maps lies with the legislature. Conversely, California employs independent commissions to undertake this responsibility, demonstrating contrasting approaches to the redistricting process.
The two most populous states, Texas and California, are at the forefront of this redistricting contention, which has extended into numerous courtrooms and state legislatures under the control of both political parties. Nationally, Democrats are within three seats of achieving a majority in the House, with only a few dozen districts being competitive. Consequently, minor changes in district maps could significantly influence which party ultimately retains control of the House.
The redrawn maps in Texas are projected to aim for five additional winnable seats for the GOP. On the other hand, California Democrats, who command supermajorities in both legislative chambers, introduced a proposal last Friday that could potentially yield five extra U.S. House seats for the Democratic Party. Any alterations to the congressional districts in California will necessitate approval from both state lawmakers and voters. Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom has announced that a special referendum regarding the new districts will be held on November 4.
