Gavin Newsom, Governor of California | Official website
Governor Gavin Newsom has announced a new statewide initiative in response to actions by President Trump and Texas lawmakers regarding congressional redistricting. The effort, revealed at an event in Los Angeles with state leaders and advocates, aims to introduce a legislative package for a state constitutional amendment that would allow California voters to respond if Texas proceeds with mid-cycle redistricting.
“California will not sit idle as Trump and his Republican lapdogs shred our country’s democracy before our very eyes. In just six months, Trump’s unchecked power has cost Americans billions and taken an ax to the greatest democracy we’ve ever known. This moment calls for urgency and action – that is what we are putting before voters this November, a chance to fight back against his anti-American ways,” said Governor Gavin Newsom.
The proposed constitutional amendment, named The Election Rigging Response Act, would appear on the ballot this November. Its provisions include maintaining California’s Citizens Redistricting Commission, expressing support for nonpartisan redistricting commissions nationwide, temporarily adopting new congressional districts through 2030 if other states alter their maps mid-decade, and preserving current maps if no changes occur elsewhere.
Additional legislation will be introduced to call a special election on November 4 for voters to decide on the amendment, establish timelines and procedures for that election, set up a new congressional map contingent on out-of-state redistricting actions, and authorize reimbursement of election administration costs.
Governor Newsom recently met with Texas officials about ongoing legislative sessions in Texas focused on storm recovery but noted concerns over President Trump’s push for favorable Republican redistricting. Polls show that 63% of likely Texas voters view the proposed changes as unnecessary.
Earlier this week, Governor Newsom offered President Trump an alternative path but stated that since it was declined, Californians should have the opportunity to counteract any gains from altered congressional maps in Texas or other states. He indicated plans to work closely with legislative leaders so California voters can participate in defending democratic processes.
“California Democrats will not allow Trump’s Republican Party to rig the system and take permanent control of the U.S. House of Representatives,” said Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas.“We are prepared and we will fight fire with fire. We will do whatever it takes to defend our democracy. We will do whatever it takes to protect the voices, the votes, and the rights of every American.”
Senate President pro Tempore Mike McGuire commented: “President Trump and Texas Republicans are responsible for all of this. This is not a fight California chose, but it’s a fight California can’t run from... It is our sacred responsibility to defend the people of California and our democracy from this madness.”
Senator Alex Padilla added: “The damage the Trump administration is causing to our country is clear: masked agents terrorizing communities, tax dollars wasted on military stunts... This administration is out of control—and the Election Rigging Response Act is how California defends our democracy and fights back.”
Senator Adam Schiff stated: “Donald Trump is terrified of facing voters in the midterms after taking away their food and healthcare... That’s why he’s demanded that Republicans in Texas further gerrymander their lines... If Texas moves forward with their new lines, California must respond.”
Representative Zoe Lofgren emphasized unity among Democratic leaders: “Republicans know their agenda is unpopular... I am proud to stand strongly to resist this power grab with our state legislative partners... If Republicans continue along this path, they will be met with the full force of California.”
Labor organizations also expressed support for these measures. Lorena Gonzalez of AFL-CIO said: “President Trump has said that Republicans are ‘entitled’ to five more congressional votes in Texas... We are 2.3 million union members strong and we will use our collective power...” David B. Goldberg from CTA warned about threats posed by federal education policies tied into broader political maneuvers.
SEIU California President David Huerta remarked: “Trump and his MAGA loyalists are trying to steal the next election... SEIU members stand ready...” Jodi Hicks from Planned Parenthood Affiliates referenced recent funding cuts as evidence reproductive health access could be at risk under continued federal consolidation.
Common Cause described current efforts as part of "a broader march toward authoritarianism," while Assemblymember Mike Fong linked them directly to impacts on marginalized communities’ representation.
State Senator Akilah Weber Pierson stressed consequences beyond politics: “Instead of proving its policies are working… [the] administration is trying to silence dissent by directing Texas…” Senator Lena Gonzalez highlighted Latino community interests; Assemblymember Juan Carrillo underscored empowering Latino voters at large.
Other national leaders have signaled similar intent or concern regarding redistricting practices outside normal census cycles—including elected officials from Arizona, Michigan, New York (https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-support-ny-redrawing-congressional-maps-if-other-states-act), Illinois (https://www.chicagotribune.com/politics/ct-illinois-pritzker-redistricting-response-20250814-h7e5g6.html), New Jersey (https://www.nj.gov/governor/news/news/562024/approved/20240814a.shtml), Maryland (https://mgaleg.maryland.gov/mgawebsite/Legislation/Details/hb0001?ys=2025RS), among others—suggesting potential coordinated responses across multiple states.
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