Democratic leaders across the country criticized Texas Republicans on Wednesday for approving a new congressional map, which is expected to provide the GOP with five additional seats in the upcoming midterm elections.
The map received approval along party lines, passing with a vote of 88-52. It will next be reviewed by the state Senate for final approval before going to Governor Greg Abbott’s desk.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul, a Democrat, expressed her concerns after the vote, saying, “Tonight, the Texas Republicans handed Donald Trump a map that suits his needs. They realize they cannot compete with their record on healthcare, the economy, and the welfare of families.”
She added that this move was a desperate attempt by a failing party to cling to power.
California Governor Gavin Newsom echoed her sentiments, citing that efforts in his state revealed “signs of weakness” from Republicans trying to regain footing. He remarked on Social Platform X that changes to the rules only happen when there’s a perceived threat, which is how he sees the situation with Texas Republicans.
He mentioned a desire to empower voters to select their representatives, stating that the Texas GOP has an “off-ramp” to reconsider their approach, depending on how they proceed.
Criticism has intensified following the return of a Texas Democrat who had fled to obstruct the vote due to threats of arrest, alongside fines levied against them by state lawmakers.
Both Newsom and Hochul have pledged to combat Texas’s efforts with their own proposals to redraw district lines in their states. California Democrats unveiled a new congressional map last week aimed at countering the five seats Texas is set to gain, and they have called for a special session in November to vote on this proposal. Meanwhile, California Republicans opposed these efforts but had their petition to the state Supreme Court rejected.
Newsom is urging Democratic leaders in New York and Illinois to expedite their own redistricting plans.
Hochul also vowed to confront Trump’s legal maneuvers directly, asserting, “We will challenge him and succeed on his own turf.”
Georgia Senator John Ossoff highlighted the importance of a balanced distribution of power, stressing that Democrats must take decisive action. He cautioned against any delay, pointing out the urgent threat posed by Trump and his associates aiming to solidify a one-party system in America.
