Texas Democrats Receive Boost from Obama: ‘Inspiring’ Fight Against Gerrymandering
In a show of solidarity, former President Barack Obama has praised a group of Texas Democratic lawmakers for fleeing their state to block a vote on a contentious redistricting bill. The bill, backed by President Donald Trump, aims to redraw Texas’ congressional districts in a way that would likely give Republicans five additional seats. Over 50 Democratic members of the Texas House of Representatives fled the state to deny Republicans the quorum needed to pass the bill.
Obama’s Support
Obama commended the lawmakers’ actions, calling them “inspiring” and emphasizing their importance in protecting free and fair elections. According to an Obama spokesperson, the former president “lauded their fight against the Republican efforts to enact an even more egregious gerrymander in Texas ahead of the midterms”. Texas State Rep. Gene Wu, chairman of the Texas House Democratic Caucus, expressed gratitude for Obama’s support, stating that it proves Democrats stand together in fighting for democracy ¹.
Texas Democrats’ Stance
The Texas Democrats have vowed to remain out of state until the legislature agrees to adjourn without plans to meet again or if California introduces its own redistricting legislation to counterbalance the GOP seats gained in Texas. Wu emphasized that Republican threats and surveillance have forced them to meet with Obama via Zoom, highlighting the desperation of Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s administration to push through their gerrymandering scheme.
California’s Response
Meanwhile, California Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom has announced plans to counter the Texas redistricting plan by redrawing California’s districts to eliminate Republican seats. This move has sparked a heated response from Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, who suggested that if California eliminates its Republican districts, Texas should do the same. The battle for fair representation has intensified, with national implications for the 2026 midterm elections.
