CA vs. TX: The Redistricting Arms Race to Control Congress | WSJ

Redistricting Strategies & Impact - Texas Republicans aim to gain five more seats in Congress by redrawing districts, specifically targeting cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston, and two seats in South Texas [1][4] - Democrats in California plan to neutralize Texas's efforts through redistricting, potentially targeting districts like the 1st District by connecting rural areas with the liberal coast [2][14] - Republicans are banking on gains made with Latino voters in 2024, particularly in South Texas, but these gains are not guaranteed [6] Key States & Districts - In Texas, the proposed map splits up the Fort Worth District and packs Democrats into two districts in Dallas, creating a solidly Republican district [7][8] - The proposed map in Austin packs many Democratic voters into one seat, making it a heavily Democratic district [10] - Republicans are looking to take seats from Democrats in Missouri, Indiana (two seats), Florida (around three seats), and Ohio (between two and three seats) [16][17] Potential Outcomes & Challenges - The next Congress is likely to be fairly polarized due to mid-decade redistricting, a trend not seen before [19] - Republicans may face legal challenges to the proposed maps in California, potentially leading to court rulings [15] - It's uncertain whether Democrats in New York have enough time to implement a new map for the midterm elections [17]