Governor Gavin Newsome is appealing straight to Donald Trump to stop the Republican plan to rig Texas's congressional map. Today, Newsome sent a letter telling Trump he'd prefer to let independent bodies draw congressional districts, not partisan legislatures. But he wrote, "Cal cannot stand idly by as this power grab unfolds." Not sure if that message will land with a president who says the quiet part out loud.I think we get five and there could be some other states. We're going to get another three or fou ...

Redistricting Concerns & Proposed Solutions - The industry observes growing concerns over mid-decade redistricting efforts by both parties, viewing it as disruptive and unpopular [1][4][5][10][11] - A proposed bill aims to void new maps adopted after November 2024, maintaining current maps to address mid-decade redistricting standoffs [1] - The industry highlights the need for a truce in the redistricting war, advocating for a return to traditional, once-a-decade redistricting after the census [12][14] Political Implications & Party Stances - The report suggests that redistricting efforts could empower political figures and potentially dismantle independent commissions designed for fair elections [5][7][8] - The analysis points out that while both parties have engaged in gerrymandering, the current mid-decade fight is primarily driven by one party [10][15] - The industry notes an increasing number of individuals from both sides are supporting the proposed bill, indicating a desire to focus on more pressing issues [12] Impact on Representative Government & Democracy - The report emphasizes that unscheduled redistricting can arbitrarily remove communities from their representatives, negatively impacting representative government [4] - The industry expresses concern that attempts to bend the rules of the game contribute to disillusionment and distrust in the political process [19] - The analysis underscores the importance of finding common ground in setting the basic parameters of politics to maintain a healthy democracy [17][18]

Political Commentary & Legal Analysis - The discussion revolves around the controversy of gerrymandering, with the interviewee arguing that Democrats might need to engage in it temporarily to counter authoritarian moves, particularly those seen in states like Texas [1][2][3][4] - Concerns are raised about whether using similar tactics as Republicans could undermine public trust in the electoral system [5] - The interviewee distinguishes between the actions of Democrats and Republicans, suggesting that the former's actions are responsive and temporary, unlike the alleged actions of the previous administration [5][6][7][8] - The legality of the FBI's potential intervention in locating Democratic lawmakers who fled Texas is questioned, with the interviewee suggesting there is no federal jurisdiction [9][10] - The interviewee addresses a subpoena from the House Oversight Committee related to the Jeffrey Epstein matter, stating that they are in the process of discussing the matter with the committee [11][12][13][14][15] - The interviewee criticizes the alleged weaponization of the Justice Department by the previous administration, arguing that investigations lacked a factual basis [16][17][18][19][20] - The interviewee emphasizes the importance of citizen participation in the democratic process and the need to reimagine the executive branch to prevent future crises [20][21][22]

From @WSJopinion: The parties have gerrymandered since before the word was coined in 1812. Both parties act in egregious ways. When they complain about the other, it’s hypocrisy pure and simple, writes @KarlRove. https://t.co/YCUmJohyv0 ...

From @WSJopinion: The parties have gerrymandered since before the word was coined in 1812. Both parties act in egregious ways. When they complain about the other, it’s hypocrisy pure and simple, writes @KarlRove. https://t.co/WIE39naJQD ...

Democrats are betting that voters will like its combative tone on gerrymandering, writes @Erika_D_Smith, but probably hoping they don’t actually have to draw new districts (via @opinion) https://t.co/XD8dIGLNdW ...

Voting Rights & Legislation - The report highlights the escalating efforts to dilute voter rights, drawing a parallel to the historical context of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 [1][2] - The Voting Rights Act, initially supported by both Republicans and Democrats, has been systematically weakened by Republican states and the Supreme Court [3][5] - A comprehensive voting rights package with 10 bills has been introduced to expand and standardize voting practices across the country [13] - The John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act aims to review states with a history of discriminatory voting practices [13][14] Political Landscape & Gerrymandering - Texas Republicans are accused of creating an environment of threats and intimidation related to redistricting [4] - The report alleges attempts to manipulate district lines to eliminate African-American and Hispanic opportunity districts in Texas [7][10] - There are concerns about potential gerrymandering efforts in other states like Missouri, targeting specific congressional districts [15][20] Allegations of Voter Suppression - The report suggests that voter suppression tactics are evolving, with parallels drawn to historical methods of restricting access to the ballot [10][11] - Accusations are made against Texas Republicans for seeking to reduce the number of Democratic voters [7] - The report mentions claims of possible bribery and attempts to remove Democratic leadership [8] Call to Action & Future Outlook - The report emphasizes the need for nationwide action to protect voting rights and prevent a potential takeover [18][22] - There is a call for fair maps and citizens commissions in every state to prevent extreme gerrymandering [19] - The report expresses hope that the Voting Rights Act can be revitalized through legal arguments and public demand [18]

You notice they go to Illinois for safety, but that's all gerrymandered. California is gerrymandered. We should have many more seats in Congress in California.It's all gerrymandered. And we have an opportunity in Texas to pick up five seats. We have a really good governor. And we have good people in Texas. And I won Texas.I got the highest vote in the history of Texas, as you probably know. And uh we are entitled to five more seats. >> Whatever it takes, Sean. Whatever it takes, we're going to get it done.T ...

Gavin Newsom, the governor of California, thinks that Democrats could fight Republicans to a gerrymandering draw. Our analysis shows how this could happen https://t.co/tNp4bITlQe ...

Two Republicans making moves straight out of the authoritarian playbook. First, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has just filed a lawsuit with the Supreme Court of Texas aiming to remove state representative Jean Woo, the chair of Texas's House Democratic Caucus for helping his colleagues flee the state to block Republicans from passing that severely gerrymandered congressional map. Also tonight, Donald Trump now indicating he might get the FBI involved to force Texas Democrats back to the state house.Well, I thi ...