California Gov. Gavin Newsom and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced Friday that the state will fast-track a special election in early November to let voters decide on a new congressional map — a move Newsom admitted could give Democrats five additional seats ahead of the 2026 midterms.
The measure would temporarily bypass California’s independent redistricting commission and adopt a Democrat-crafted map.
Newsom framed it as a direct “counterpunch” to Texas Republicans’ mid-decade redistricting push, which is supported by President Donald Trump and Gov. Greg Abbott.
“We’ll pick up five seats… with the consent of the people,” Newsom said. “That’s the difference between us and Texas — we’re transparent and we’re asking voters for approval.”
Targeting Trump and Abbott
Newsom accused Abbott of “dialing for new seats” and blasted Trump’s leadership, claiming his presidency “has failed.”
Pelosi defended Texas Democrats’ ongoing quorum-breaking walkout, calling it “self-defense for our democracy.”
Texas Republicans are aiming to add up to five GOP-leaning districts, prompting dozens of Texas Democrats to flee to blue states, including California, to stall the vote.
Arrest Warrants in Texas Standoff
Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows has signed arrest warrants for absent Democrats, and Abbott has called on state troopers to enforce them — though the warrants only apply inside Texas.
California Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas says the proposed maps will be released next week, with time for public review before the November vote.
