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California Dems “Squabble Up” in National Redistricting Battle

August 13, 2025

California's Democratic leaders, including Governor Gavin Newsom and Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas, have announced plans to redraw California's congressional maps ahead of the midterm elections in response to similar efforts by Texas Republicans. The proposed redistricting measure, which would be put to voters in a special election on November 4, 2025, could potentially add five congressional districts favorable to Democrats while reducing Republican seats from nine to four out of 52. This move would override California's independent Citizens Redistricting Commission, which normally handles the redistricting process using U.S. Census data.

Who is affected

  • California voters who will consider the redistricting measure in a special election
  • California's current Republican U.S. House members, particularly Reps. Doug LaMalfa and Kevin Kiley
  • Texas Democrats who left their state to block the Republican redistricting vote
  • Voters in potentially 13 states considering redistricting before the 2026 midterms
  • California Citizens Redistricting Commission whose authority would be overridden
  • Vulnerable communities whose voting rights are mentioned as being protected

What action is being taken

  • California Democratic leaders are planning to redraw the state's congressional maps
  • Texas Democrats have left their state to prevent Republicans from passing new U.S. House maps
  • Governor Abbott of Texas is calling for the arrest of Democrats who participated in the walkout
  • California legislators are preparing to officially initiate a special election upon their return from recess
  • California Assembly Speaker Rivas plans to release redistricting maps the week of August 11, 2025

Why it matters

  • The redistricting efforts could significantly impact the balance of power in the U.S. House of Representatives
  • This represents a direct response to Texas Republicans' attempts to redraw their own maps to gain congressional seats
  • The California plan would override the state's independent redistricting commission, altering the established process
  • According to Newsom and Democrats, this is about protecting democracy against partisan manipulation
  • Rep. Kiley argues that a "nationwide redistricting war" would be harmful to representative government

What's next

  • The California legislature will return from recess on August 18 and have five days to officially initiate a special election
  • Redistricting maps will be released the week of August 11, 2025
  • Voters will consider the redistricting measure in a special election on November 4, 2025
  • The public will have time to review the maps before the special election
  • At least 13 states may consider redistricting before the 2026 midterms

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint