California Democrats Push for Rezoning Measures
California Governor Gavin Newsom joined Senator Cory Booker, Democratic National Committee Chairman Ken Martin, and Texas Representative Nicole Collier to rally support for new rezoning measures in the state.
“Yes, we fight fire with fire. Yes, we push back. It’s not just about hardball anymore; it’s about knowing how to play hardball,” Newsom stated during a phone conversation.
Recently, Newsom and California Democrats revealed a proposed council boundary change. This effort seems aimed at countering the expected ambitions of Texas Republicans who are looking to redraw their house map.
Democrats are working to place House maps before voters this November, seeking to enable voters to redraw the maps mid-decade and circumvent the state’s independent district committee.
Republicans have already raised concerns about California Democrats’ ability to act before the electorate, with notable GOP figures like former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and House Speaker Mike Johnson indicating they are ready to contest the map.
The joint appearance of Booker and Newsom is significant, especially as both are considered potential contenders for the 2028 presidential election. They emphasized that democracy is under threat and highlighted the gravity of the ongoing constituency battle.
“It’s all about the deck. Where were you when Donald Trump violated court orders? When he undermined the idea of legitimate procedures in our country?” Booker asked. “Where were you when he sent masked individuals in unmarked vehicles to clear our streets?”
He added, “If I keep bringing him up, it’ll be regrettable. And Texas Republicans will keep ignoring, disparaging, and stripping away rights from fellow Americans, all without a fight.”
During the discussion, Collier was notably asked to leave for answering a call from the restroom at the Texas Capitol.
What exactly Collier violated remains unclear. Efforts to reach her office, the Texas House Democratic Caucus, and the Texas House GOP Caucus for comments were made.
Collier’s actions were defended by her fellow Democrats.
Booker remarked, “Rep. Collier in the bathroom has more dignity than Donald Trump in his Oval Office.” He added, “What they’re attempting to do is silence American leaders, particularly the voices of Black women, and that’s unacceptable.”
