What Next | Daily News and Analysis The Redistricting Arms Race Is On
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Nov 3, 2025 
Ari Berman, a voting rights reporter at Mother Jones, dives into the intense redistricting battle sparked by Trump’s demand for GOP seats. He reveals how California is now on a quest for Democratic seats in response. The discussion highlights the intricate political dynamics, including California's Proposition 50 and the rare Republican resistance to gerrymandering. Berman emphasizes the long-term risks of normalizing mid-decade redistricting, which could undermine democracy by reducing competitive districts.
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California's Temporary Redistricting Push
- California's Prop 50 would temporarily redraw congressional maps to create up to five additional Democratic seats before 2026.
- Ari Berman says this aims to counter Republican mid-decade gerrymanders like Texas and restore balance to the House race.
Mid-Decade Maps Shift The Playing Field
- Republicans passed mid-decade maps in some states to gain seats before the 2026 midterms, pressuring Democrats to respond.
- Berman warns that unless multiple Democratic states act, GOP gerrymanders still advantage Republicans for 2026.
Trump Pressured Texas To Redraw Maps
- Donald Trump personally pressured Texas to redraw maps in July to try to secure five extra GOP seats.
- Texas Republicans folded and passed a new map despite initial reluctance, per Ari Berman.