Former President Barack Obama has endorsed California Governor Gavin Newsom’s redistricting plan, describing it as a measured and “responsible approach” to safeguarding electoral fairness.
Speaking at a fundraiser for the National Democratic Redistricting Committee, Obama praised Newsom’s strategy, which will be put to California voters in November. The proposal would allow the state to redraw congressional maps only if Republican-controlled states, particularly Texas, adopt aggressive redistricting measures to secure partisan gains.
Quoting Newsom’s stance, Obama said: “He said this is going to be completely responsible. We’re not going to completely maximize it. We’re only going to do it if and when Texas and/or other Republican states begin to pull these maneuvers. Otherwise, this doesn’t go into effect.”
Texas at the Center of the Debate
Obama’s comments come as Texas Republicans prepare to vote on a new congressional map that could flip as many as five Democratic-held U.S. House seats in time for the 2026 elections. The measure advanced after Democratic lawmakers ended a two-week walkout that temporarily delayed the special legislative session.
“I’d love to see the people of Texas reject what’s happening,” Obama added, “but unlike in California, they’re not being given the option of deciding whether this is a smart thing to do or not.”
Newsom Thanks Obama, Frames Plan as a Defense of Democracy
In response, Governor Newsom expressed gratitude on social media for Obama’s support. He positioned Proposition 50 — the proposed redistricting measure — as a direct safeguard against attempts by former President Donald Trump to reshape the electoral landscape.
“California will redraw our maps and neutralize any attempts Donald Trump makes to steal Congressional seats,” Newsom wrote. “Thank you, President Obama, for backing Proposition 50 and standing up for America’s democracy.”
Trump Pushes Texas Republicans to Act Quickly
Meanwhile, Trump has continued to pressure Texas Republicans to approve their proposed redistricting bill. In a Truth Social post on Aug. 19, he urged lawmakers to move swiftly.
“Which is exactly why Texas Republicans need to help us WIN the 2026 Midterm Elections, and pass their new Bill, AS IS, for the ONE BIG, BEAUTIFUL CONGRESSIONAL MAP! I call on all of my Republican friends in the Legislature to work as fast as they can to get THIS MAP to Governor Greg Abbott’s desk, ASAP.”
Looking Ahead
California voters will have the final say on Newsom’s conditional redistricting proposal in November. The move underscores growing partisan battles over electoral boundaries, with Democrats framing their efforts as protective measures and Republicans accelerating their own redistricting plans ahead of 2026.
