California Governor Gavin Newsom announced Tuesday that the state will redraw its House maps after President Donald Trump failed to respond to a letter urging him to stop redistricting efforts in red states. Newsom’s statement, posted on the social platform X, mocked Trump’s style on Truth Social, calling him “Donald ‘Taco’ Trump” and declaring that California will create “beautiful maps” that could help Democrats regain control of the House.
Newsom had sent a letter to President Trump on Monday, asking him to halt mid-decade redistricting in Texas and other Republican-led states. Newsom warned that California would redraw its maps to counteract any GOP advantages if Trump did not comply. The governor’s office gave Trump until Tuesday evening to respond, but the deadline passed without a reply.
The redistricting clash comes as Republicans in Texas and other states attempt to redraw congressional maps to favor the GOP ahead of the 2026 midterms. Newsom’s plan involves asking California voters to override existing maps created by an independent commission, potentially adding five more Democratic-leaning seats. A press conference is expected later this week, where Newsom will discuss the proposed changes.
Despite the political tension, Newsom expressed a preference for leaving map-making to independent commissions rather than partisan bodies. However, he emphasized that California cannot remain passive amid what he views as a power grab by Republican states. The White House has been encouraging red states to proceed with redistricting, with Vice President JD Vance recently lobbying Republican leaders in Indiana.
The ongoing redistricting battle highlights the broader political struggle between Democrats and Republicans as both parties prepare for the upcoming elections.
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