Texas Democrat Calls for Fair Election Map While Advocating Gerrymandering

During a recent CNN appearance, Texas Democrat Julie Johnson emphasized the need for a “fair and independent” election map, while also endorsing partisan gerrymandering in states controlled by Democrats.

In her discussion on “Leave with Jake Tupper,” Johnson framed the ongoing political struggle as crucial for the future of democracy in the U.S. She criticized the policies of the Trump administration, alleging that healthcare cuts have worsened hunger for vulnerable populations and have compromised legitimate immigration processes.

“If the rules remain the same, I’m all for a fair and independent map. But if Republicans want to gerrymander in states like Texas or Florida, then Democrats should reciprocate in blue states like California,” Johnson stated. “We can’t progress, given our current situation, with our hands tied and playing by different rules.”

Johnson expressed her dissatisfaction with the current political climate, insisting that it is no longer tolerable.

“This isn’t acceptable anymore. There’s an old Abraham Lincoln quote that comes to mind: ‘When times are new, the call for action is new, and it’s time to see things anew,'” she added.

Johnson believes the U.S. is embroiled in significant battles for its future.

“This is a war for our nation’s future and its democratic essence. The actions of the Trump administration have led to millions being deprived of healthcare, with many elderly, veterans, and children facing hunger due to various immigration policies,” she said. “Everything is at stake regarding what our country stands for and where we are headed.”

Democratic-controlled states have actively engaged in gerrymandering, particularly during the 2020 redistricting cycle. In Illinois, Democrats implemented a congressional map in 2021, facing lawsuits for diluting Republican representation and alleged constitutional violations. Similarly, a 2022 Maryland state court ruling deemed Democrat-drawn congressional maps illegal, prompting a mandate for the legislature to redraw the lines for the upcoming election.

However, Johnson’s assertions about the impact of the Trump administration’s immigration policies are disputed. The Supreme Court ruled in 2025 that individuals detained under the alien enemy laws retain the right to challenge their detention, upholding due process protections.

Moreover, contrary to Democratic claims, the Trump administration’s legislative proposals included a $25 billion fund for rural hospitals and aimed to address Medicaid provider tax issues. There were also changes aimed at Supplemental Nutrition Support Programs, which sought to expand work requirements to encourage personal responsibility among recipients.