California Governor Gavin Newsom is preparing to move forward with a plan to redraw the state’s congressional districts if Texas Republicans approve their proposed new map, according to a person with direct knowledge of his thinking. The Texas plan, backed by former President Donald Trump, seeks to flip five Democratic-held seats. In response, California lawmakers, with Newsom’s backing, are exploring a map targeting five Republican incumbents.
Those involved in the discussions say potential targets include Republican Reps. Ken Calvert, Darrell Issa, Kevin Kiley, Doug LaMalfa and David Valadao. The proposal, once finalized, would go to the Democratic-controlled Legislature, which could approve it directly or put it before voters in a statewide ballot measure. Supporters argue mid-decade redistricting is legally permissible since California’s independent redistricting commission is only mandated to draw lines once every ten years.
The talks have been ongoing for weeks between Newsom’s team, House Democrats, and members of California’s congressional delegation. Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has also been involved, and the plan has attracted attention from the White House. Vice President JD Vance has criticized California’s existing maps, calling them “outrageous.” If successful, the proposed changes could give Democrats a 48-4 advantage in the state’s congressional delegation.
Democratic governors in other states, including New York’s Kathy Hochul and Illinois’ JB Pritzker, are considering similar actions in response to Republican-led redistricting efforts. Hochul has publicly warned she will not “sit by” while Trump and Texas Republicans attempt to reshape the political landscape, though she has offered no concrete plan.
Texas Democrats, meanwhile, have been meeting with Democratic governors in several states, including Newsom and Pritzker, to discuss the redistricting battle. Some have floated the possibility of leaving Texas to block a quorum, a tactic used unsuccessfully in previous legislative fights.
The broader stakes are high. A loss of House control would open Trump to investigations and give Democrats leverage to disrupt his legislative agenda. While Democrats have long championed independent commissions for fair maps, Trump’s push in Texas has prompted some party leaders to abandon that stance in favor of aggressive countermeasures.
Republicans are also looking beyond Texas. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has suggested his state could pursue mid-decade redistricting, and Ohio is already scheduled to draw new maps next year. Missouri is also being eyed for potential GOP gains.
Despite early reluctance from some Texas Republicans, the state’s new map avoids creating competitive districts for GOP incumbents, easing internal opposition. Trump’s influence within the party has quelled dissent, paving the way for the proposal to advance.
Former Democratic Congressman Beto O’Rourke has urged Newsom to act without waiting for Texas to finalize its map, calling for Democrats to take the offensive in the redistricting fight.
