Overview
- The DOJ filed in federal court in Los Angeles to join a lawsuit led by the California Republican Party, seeking to bar use of the new map in the 2026 elections and beyond.
- Government lawyers argue race predominated over permissible factors, alleging the lines were drawn to advantage Hispanic voters in violation of the Equal Protection Clause.
- Proposition 50, approved by voters on Nov. 4, lets the legislature replace the commission’s map and is projected by analysts to put up to five GOP-held seats at risk.
- With Republicans holding a 219–214 edge in the House, the case could influence which party controls the chamber after the 2026 midterms.
- The case is pending in the Central District of California; DOJ named its litigation team and noted Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon is recused, as both sides traded sharp statements.