Newsom Threatens to Redraw California’s Districts if GOP States Push Mid-Decade Maps
California Governor Gavin Newsom has warned President Donald Trump that he will move to redraw California’s congressional maps if Republican-led states proceed with what he calls “hyper-partisan gerrymanders” ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
In a letter posted Monday on X, Newsom urged Trump to convince governors in red states to abandon their mid-decade redistricting plans. “If you will not stand down, I will be forced to lead an effort to redraw the maps in California to offset the rigging of maps in red states,” Newsom wrote, adding that California would halt its own efforts if other states do the same.
The governor pointed out that California’s current districts were drawn by an independent citizens’ commission, a process in place for nearly 20 years, but argued the state “cannot stand idly by” if others change maps before the next census. His plan would largely depend on whether Texas and other GOP-led states carry out their proposed redistricting.
The political battle comes as Texas lawmakers advance new congressional maps after a Justice Department claim that current boundaries violate civil rights laws. In California, Newsom’s threat has sparked debate in the state legislature over whether to amend the state constitution to allow lawmakers — rather than the independent commission — to control redistricting. State officials estimate such a move could cost over $200 million.
Critics from both parties have pushed back. Rep. Kevin Kiley (R-CA) called the idea “uniquely corrupt,” while former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) — who helped establish the commission through voter initiatives in 2008 and 2010 — said dismantling it would undermine the system’s integrity.
Still, Newsom has backing from Democratic heavyweights, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), who echoed his concerns about what she labeled a “rigged” election process in other states. Pelosi argued California should be prepared to act if Texas moves ahead with its plan.
However, not all Democrats are on board. Alex Lee (D-Milpitas) warned that abandoning the commission could “betray the party platform” and create a dangerous precedent.
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