Redistricting Battle: California vs. Texas

In a bold move, California's legislature swiftly passed a redistricting scheme on Thursday, designed to secure five extra congressional seats for Democrats. This action positions the state in direct opposition to Republican maneuvers in Texas spearheaded by allies of former President Donald Trump.

Governor Gavin Newsom, enjoying overwhelming Democratic support in both legislative houses, has championed this effort as a check against extreme partisan redistricting by Republicans. This legislation is seen as an emergency response to counterbalance perceived Republican overreach.

The measure, however, departs from the traditional bipartisan redistricting approach. Newsom emphasized its necessity to combat what Democrats label a 'power grab' in Texas, where a controversial redistricting plan is set to advance without voter input, drawing fierce opposition from civil rights advocates.

(With inputs from agencies.)