California weighs redoing congressional map after Texas, Newsom warns state will not 'sit by idly'

California Democrats are reportedly weighing whether they will redo the state's Congressional map that would redraw five Republican-held districts into Democratic districts ahead of the 2026 midterms.

The possible redrawing comes after the Texas state legislature decided to redo its map, which caused an outcry from the state's Democratic lawmakers. Dozens of state lawmakers fled Texas over the weekend to deny Republicans the quorum they'd need to advance a congressional map that would give them five pickup opportunities.

A draft of the proposed redistricting in California would increase the Democratic margin to 48 of California’s 52 congressional seats, up from the 43 seats the party currently holds, but it would need to be approved by lawmakers and voters.

The proposal would redraw lines that would effectively make it harder for incumbent GOP Reps. Kevin Kiley, Ken Calvert, Darrell Issa, David Valadao and Doug LaMalfa to win reelection, according to the Associated Press.

California Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom appeared to encourage a new map in his state if Texas moves forward with its plan. Newsom said he would put the idea in front of voters in a special election in November.

"[Texas] triggered this response. … Whatever they are doing will be neutered here in the state of California. And they will pay that price,” Newsom said in a press conference. “I hope they do the right thing. … But again, we’re working with the legislature on a trigger that if they do move forward, California will not sit by idly and watch this democracy waste away."

Other Democratic governors have also toyed with the idea of redistricting in response to Texas, with New York Gov. Kathy Hochul stating her party needs to "fight fire with fire."

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.