Trump's Terms Texas appeals ruling that blocked the use of a Trump-backed voting map
Nov 19, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Andrew Schneider, a reporter for Houston Public Media covering Texas politics, dives into the contentious redistricting battle in Texas. He reveals how a ruling blocked a Republican-backed voting map, raising concerns over racial gerrymandering. Schneider shares insights on the triggering DOJ letter and critiques of its legal flaws. The reactions from both political sides are examined, showcasing the high stakes as similar redistricting efforts unfold across the nation, potentially impacting the 2026 midterms.
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Court Labels Map Racial Gerrymandering
- Judges concluded Texas's redistricting was racial gerrymandering, not just partisan maneuvering.
- That finding triggered an injunction blocking the 2026 map from being used in the midterms.
DOJ Letter Sparked The Redraw
- The redistricting was prompted by a Justice Department letter that framed districts by racial makeup.
- Judge Jeffrey V. Brown highlighted legal flaws in that DOJ letter and its role in starting the process.
Judge Critiques Legal Quality Of DOJ Memo
- Judge Brown criticized the DOJ letter's legal basis and even its writing, citing typos and mistakes.
- Texas AG attorneys called the letter 'legally unsound, baseless, erroneous, ham-fisted, and a mess.'