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4w ago

Texas Democrats Return, Restoring Quorum as GOP Map Push Resumes

The revived process sets up a cross-state clash likely to be decided by a California referendum followed by court rulings before 2026.

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California Gov. Gavin Newsom speaks during a news conference Thursday, Aug. 14, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
Texas Democratic lawmakers return to Texas after leaving two weeks ago to block a vote on a redrawn redistricting map, Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, in Austin, Texas. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)
Supporters for the returning Texas democrats chant as members enter the house at the Texas Capitol in Austin, Texas, Monday, Aug. 18, 2025. (AP Photo/Stephen Spillman)

Overview

  • The Texas House convened briefly Monday without taking up bills and is slated to reconvene Wednesday, clearing the way to advance the mid‑decade redistricting plan.
  • Republicans are pressing a U.S. House map designed to create about five additional GOP‑leaning seats for 2026, with Gov. Greg Abbott adding the issue to a special session at President Donald Trump’s urging.
  • California Democrats unveiled counter‑maps projected to add up to five Democratic seats and introduced legislation to place the plan on a Nov. 4 statewide referendum.
  • Texas Democratic leaders say they will build a legal record to challenge the maps in court after a walkout that drew $500‑per‑day fines, civil arrest warrants and removal lawsuits.
  • Both parties are broadening the fight beyond Texas and California, as small seat shifts in a few states could determine control of the narrowly divided U.S. House in 2026.