The NPR Politics Podcast Texas GOP Hopes to Redraw Congressional Map And Keep Control Of U.S. House
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Jul 21, 2025 Join correspondent Hansi Lo Wang, who covers redistricting, as he delves into Texas's contentious congressional map redraw. They explore the political maneuvering behind this urgent special session and what it means for party control. The discussion highlights serious allegations of racial gerrymandering, shifting strategies from both parties, and ongoing legal battles tied to the Voting Rights Act. With evolving voter demographics, the stakes are high as Texas navigates these pivotal changes.
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Texas GOP Mid-Decade Redistricting
- Texas Republicans are redrawing congressional districts mid-decade to preserve GOP control despite usual once-a-decade process.
- Governor Abbott cites a DOJ letter alleging racial gerrymandering in four districts as justification.
Race vs. Partisan Gerrymandering
- Partisan gerrymandering is legal while racial gerrymandering is not, a fine line exists due to racial voting patterns.
- Courts struggle to distinguish partisan from racial motives in map drawing.
Legal Delays and New Redistricting Trends
- Lawsuits delay congressional redistricting in several states beyond the usual post-census cycle.
- The 2013 Supreme Court decision dismantling Voting Rights Act preclearance encourages states to redraw maps aggressively.