Democrats go nuclear in redistricting arms race

Top Democrats are escalating their response to a Trump-backed push to redraw Texas’ congressional map, which could give Republicans up to five new House seats and potentially secure a GOP majority in 2026. Over 50 Texas Democrats fled the state to block the vote, while GOP leaders threaten fines and legal action. In response, Democratic governors in California, New York, and Illinois are launching aggressive countermeasures, including attempts to redraw maps in their favor, Axios has reported. The battle reflects deeper party tensions and could shape the 2028 presidential field, with Govs. Gavin Newsom and Kathy Hochul emerging as key figures in the fight.