California Governor Gavin Newsom has warned former President Donald Trump and Texas Republicans against their plan to redraw congressional districts ahead of the 2026 midterms. Newsom threatened to lead a campaign to redraw California’s maps in retaliation if Texas proceeds, accusing GOP efforts of rigging districts to eliminate up to five Democratic seats. Texas Republicans justify their plan by citing Democratic-led states’ own history of gerrymandering, including California. In response to the Texas redistricting push, Democratic lawmakers fled the state to block a quorum, drawing Republican criticism during storm recovery efforts. Newsom emphasized support for nonpartisan commissions like California’s but vowed not to let Republican-led states undermine election integrity, warning such moves could destabilize democracy. Texas Governor Greg Abbott countered with threats to remove more Democratic districts if California retaliates, while Attorney General Ken Paxton seeks to declare 13 Democratic seats vacant due to lawmakers’ absences. This redistricting conflict highlights the intense battle for control of the U.S. House, with Democrats close to reclaiming a majority in a few competitive districts nationwide.