Former President Barack Obama has weighed in on the growing battle over congressional redistricting, voicing support for California Governor Gavin Newsom’s cautious approach to reshaping district maps. The move comes in response to aggressive redistricting efforts in Texas, where Republican lawmakers are pushing for changes that could secure five new GOP seats ahead of next year’s elections.
Speaking at a fundraiser, Obama praised Newsom’s strategy as “responsible,” emphasizing that California’s proposed changes would only take effect if Republican-led states like Texas proceed with partisan map redraws. He acknowledged that while political gerrymandering isn’t ideal, Democrats must respond decisively to protect democratic principles.
The event raised $2 million for Democratic redistricting efforts, drawing key figures like Nancy Pelosi and Eric Holder. Meanwhile, tensions flared in California as lawmakers debated a new map that could boost Democrats’ control of the state’s congressional delegation from 43 to 48 seats. The proposal, if approved by voters in November, would temporarily override the state’s independent redistricting commission.
Newsom and Democratic leaders insist the changes would be short-term, reverting back to the commission after the 2030 census unless Republican states continue their own redistricting maneuvers. Obama endorsed this limited timeline, framing it as a necessary response to protect fair representation.
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