The Daily California Strikes Back at Texas’ Power Grab
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Aug 22, 2025 Laurel Rosenhall, a New York Times reporter specializing in California politics, dives into the high-stakes rivalry between California and Texas over congressional redistricting. She discusses Governor Gavin Newsom's bold plan to redraw maps, potentially gaining five new Democratic seats in response to Texas gerrymandering. The conversation explores voter reaction and the implications for party representation. Rosenhall also highlights the contentious nature of these political maneuvers and the push for fairer electoral processes amidst a shifting demographic landscape.
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California’s Counterpunch Requires Voter Approval
- California plans a mid-decade redistricting to directly counter Texas's Republican mapmaking.
- But California lawmakers cannot unilaterally redraw maps and must send changes to voters for approval.
Schwarzenegger’s Push For Independent Maps
- Arnold Schwarzenegger championed independent redistricting after learning politicians engineered safe districts.
- He pushed a voter-approved commission to reduce gerrymandering and increase electoral competition.
Independent Commission Increased Competition
- Voters approved the independent commission in 2008 and later expanded it to cover congressional maps.
- That reform increased competitiveness in some California districts and reduced guaranteed incumbency.