On Thursday, former President Barack Obama participated in a significant virtual meeting with Texas House Democrats who had left the state to obstruct Republican efforts aimed at passing newly drawn congressional maps that favor the GOP. This meeting comes at a pivotal moment in the ongoing battle against partisan gerrymandering, as reported first by ABC News.
During the meeting, Obama expressed his admiration for the Texas Democrats' determination to challenge the Republican strategy that seeks to implement what he described as an "egregious gerrymander" in Texas ahead of the upcoming midterm elections. According to an Obama spokesperson, the former president emphasized that their actions are part of a broader initiative to safeguard free and fair elections and commended the legislators for inspiring others across the nation.
Texas Representative Gene Wu, who chairs the state’s House Democratic Caucus, conveyed to ABC News that the members were "especially excited" about Obama’s involvement. He highlighted that their struggle is supported by the Democratic Party "at every level." Wu stated, “Having President Obama speak with us and support us is proof that when Texas House Democrats stand up and fight back, we don't stand alone." He further remarked on how these actions are crucial in protecting the foundation of democracy from Republican attacks on voting rights.
Wu pointed out that the meeting had to take place virtually due to threats from Republicans, indicating a level of desperation from Texas Governor Greg Abbott. Wu said, “The fact that we have to meet President Obama from an undisclosed location and via Zoom because of Republican threats and surveillance only proves how desperate Abbott and his extremist allies have become. They know their racial gerrymandering scheme is falling apart, so they're resorting to intimidation tactics.” He added that Obama’s support signifies that the nation is closely observing the situation, and Texas House Democrats will not be intimidated by such bullying.
Joining President Obama on the call was former Attorney General Eric Holder, who chairs the National Democratic Redistricting Committee (NDRC). Holder provided updates on the committee’s strategies to counter Republican initiatives that encourage other red states to redraw congressional maps in their favor for the midterms. Obama's commitment to highlight the ongoing redistricting conflicts is set to continue later this month when he headlines a fundraiser in Martha’s Vineyard, hosted by the NDRC, which will also feature Speaker Emerita Rep. Nancy Pelosi.
Rep. Wu indicated that the Texas Democrats could consider returning to the state soon, contingent on two developments: if the legislature’s first special session concludes on Friday, and if California Democrats unveil their redistricting proposal to counter the proposed Texas maps. Both scenarios are anticipated to unfold on Friday.
In related news, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced that he is advancing plans to place new proposed congressional maps for California on the ballot in a special election scheduled for November 4. This initiative aims to counter Texas' gerrymandering efforts. Newsom affirmed the state's commitment to its independent redistricting commission after the 2030 census and stated, “We’re asking the voters for their consent to do midterm redistricting in 2026, 2028, and 2030 for the congressional maps to respond to what's happening in Texas, while also affirming our desire as a state to level the playing field across the United States.”
For this redistricting proposal to be placed on the ballot, the California legislature will need to pass the necessary legislation. This ongoing situation highlights the national implications of state-level redistricting battles and the urgent need for reform to ensure equitable representation.
