NBC Meet the Press Meet the Press NOW — August 21
Aug 21, 2025
Tensions rise in the redistricting battles of Texas and California, with Democrats and Republicans clashing over maps that affect communities of color. Former Amb. Richard Haass underscores Russia's reluctance for peace with Ukraine amidst escalating conflicts. Political scandals unfold, including bizarre incidents like a cash-filled potato chip bag linked to a New York advisor. Meanwhile, Trump's legal triumphs highlight the intersection of law and politics, revealing a landscape rife with intrigue and unexpected oddities.
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Redistricting Arms Race Escalates
- Texas Republicans passed mid-decade gerrymandered maps to potentially gain five House seats and consolidate power.
- The move sparked rapid legal and political countermeasures, including California Democrats preparing to redraw maps to neutralize gains.
Supreme Court Shift Fuels State Battles
- The Supreme Court placed partisan gerrymandering outside federal courts, shifting the battleground to states and Congress.
- That ruling enables aggressive state-level redraws and a cascading national response.
Democrats Personally Impacted By Maps
- Congressman Al Green protested because his safe Houston district was redrawn into a Trump +20 district, making re-election unlikely.
- Greg Casar's blue district was turned into a Trump +10 district forcing potential incumbent face-offs.