Partisan Tensions Flare as Texas Redraws Congressional Map

Texas legislators have passed a controversial new congressional map designed to potentially shift five U.S. House seats from Democratic to Republican control in the upcoming midterm elections. The move follows a strategic walkout by Democratic lawmakers that had temporarily stalled the measure.

The Republican-dominated state, acting at the urging of former President Donald Trump, engaged in mid-decade redistricting, a rare occurrence aimed at bolstering the party's chances amidst a challenging political landscape. This redistricting effort, which needs to be reconciled with a state Senate map, has sparked a national debate, with similar actions being considered in other states.

Critics, including Democrat Representative John Bucy, argue the new map undermines the voting power of minority groups and caters to Trump's agenda. Despite facing resistance, Republicans claim the map will enhance Hispanic-majority districts and strengthen their political foothold. The decision has prompted civil rights groups to vow legal challenges.

(With inputs from agencies.)