by Democrats in California are examining new electoral designs that might strengthen Democratic incumbents in other contested districts while eliminating five Republican-held House seats in the liberal state.
Texas Republicans’ attempts to redraw House districts in an attempt to increase the GOP’s dominance on the house in 2026 are the immediate cause of the action.
According to a source familiar with the plan who was not given permission to speak publicly, a draft plan that is now in circulation seeks to increase the Democratic lead to 48 of California’s 52 congressional seats. The party currently possesses 43 seats, which is an increase. Legislators and voters would have to approve it, although they could be reluctant to do so after giving redistricting authority to an impartial panel years prior.
Furthermore, in districts with vulnerable seats headquartered in San Diego County, Orange County, and the Central Valley agriculture belt, the idea would generously pad Democratic majorities, perhaps providing Democrats an advantage as Texas Republicans attempt to tip the delicate House balance.
The plan would shave right-leaning voters and boost Democratic voters in districts currently occupied by Republican Representatives Ken Calvert, Darrell Issa, Kevin Kiley, David Valadao, and Doug LaMalfa. This would increase the likelihood that a left-leaning candidate would win each campaign.
According to the source, the party’s advantage would be increased in districts that Democratic Representatives Dave Min, Mike Levin, and Derek Tran represent in order to solidify their control of the seats.
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According to a person familiar with the meeting who asked not to be named in order to share confidential discussions, Democratic members of California’s congressional delegation were informed on the new map on Monday.
At the same time as Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom has stated his desire to promote political redistricting, the plan is being distributed. He claims that if Texas stops its efforts, he won’t proceed.
A special election is scheduled for the first week of November, according to Newsom. A new congressional map created by the Democratic-controlled Legislature would be presented to voters.
California won’t watch helplessly while this democracy deteriorates, Newsom declared on Monday.
