California Governor Gavin Newsom is taking the fight over redistricting national. On Thursday, he announced that the country’s most populous state will move ahead with a partisan map-drawing plan aimed at countering Republican efforts in Texas ahead of the 2026 midterms.
“Today is liberation day in the state of California,” Newsom declared at a press conference, borrowing a phrase President Donald Trump has used to celebrate tariffs.
The governor framed the move as payback for what he called conservative manipulation of the electoral process, and made clear he’s ready to confront Trump directly.
“Donald Trump, you have poked the bear, and we will punch back,” he said.
Newsom argued that the proposed maps could net Democrats five extra seats in 2026, the same number Republicans are eyeing in Texas with their own redistricting push. Unlike Texas, however, California voters will get the final say in a special election on November 4.
He also stressed that the maps will only move forward if GOP-led states like Texas implement their own partisan redraws. The new lines, expected to be unveiled Friday, would stay in effect until 2030.
Newsom used his remarks to spotlight what he described as intimidation tactics, saying masked immigration enforcement agents had gathered outside the venue. Trump previously sent military and National Guard forces into Los Angeles during immigration raids, even suggesting Newsom should be arrested.
The clash adds to speculation about Newsom’s future on the national stage. Already mentioned as a possible 2028 presidential contender, he’s now positioning himself as a foil to Trump’s hardline agenda.
“We cannot unilaterally disarm,” Newsom said, urging other Democrat-led states to adopt similar strategies. “Other blue states need to stand up. We need to be firm.”
Texas Democrats, meanwhile, have been staging a walkout to block a GOP redistricting vote that would lock in five Republican-leaning districts. On Thursday, they hinted at returning soon, but only if Texas Republicans shut down their special session and California releases its own maps. Both steps are expected Friday.
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