The Daily Punch The Readback: Redistricting gone wild
Oct 25, 2025
Allie Mutnick, a House and elections reporter specializing in redistricting, joins to discuss the chaotic landscape of redistricting across 15 states. She reveals how recent pushes are reshaping electoral maps, creating a Democratic disadvantage in some areas due to commission politics. The duo explores whether these commissions operate impartially and how aggressive gerrymandering might backfire. They also analyze the implications of Trump's unique voter coalition for future elections while Allie shares her current reading on Halloween history.
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Redistricting Momentum After Texas Push
- Redistricting surged after Trump urged Texas to redraw five seats, triggering similar moves nationwide.
- Allie Mutnick counts about 15 states that have acted, plan to act, or are considering redistricting now.
Commissions Handcuff Democratic Legislatures
- Independent commissions in many blue states limit Democratic legislatures' ability to redraw maps for advantage.
- That constraint forces Democrats to pursue constitutional amendments or other heavy measures to regain control.
States Trying To Pause Commissions
- California is pursuing a ballot question to pause its redistricting commission so Democrats can redraw maps.
- Virginia is making a last-minute attempt to amend its constitution for the same purpose ahead of midterms.
