LOS ANGELES – California Democrats are evaluating new political maps that might reduce five Republican-held House seats in this predominantly liberal state, while also fortifying Democratic incumbents in various swing districts.
This initiative directly counters the Texas Republicans’ efforts to reshape House districts to secure a stronger GOP presence in the chamber by 2026.
A circulated draft plan proposes expanding the Democratic stronghold to 48 of California’s 52 congressional seats, according to an informed source who cannot publicly discuss the matter. This is an increase from the 43 seats Democrats currently control. Approval will be needed from lawmakers and voters, who might be hesitant given that they previously transferred redistricting authority to an independent commission.
Moreover, the proposal seeks to significantly bolster Democratic margins in districts for contested seats within Orange County, San Diego County and the Central Valley agricultural region, thereby affording Democrats a possible edge as Texas Republicans attempt to sway the tightly contested House.
Under the plan, districts now occupied by Republican Reps. Ken Calvert, Darrell Issa, Kevin Kiley, David Valadao, and Doug LaMalfa would see a decrease in right-leaning voters and an increase in Democratic voters, likely paving the way for left-leaning candidates to win each contest.
For districts held by Democratic Reps. Dave Min, Mike Levin, and Derek Tran, the proposal aims to enhance the party’s advantage to secure a firmer grip on these seats, according to the source.
Democratic members of California’s congressional delegation were briefed on the new map on Monday, according to a person familiar with the meeting who requested anonymity to discuss private conversations.
The proposal is being circulated at the same time that Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom has said he wants to advance partisan redistricting. He says he won’t move ahead if Texas pauses its efforts.
Newsom said he’d call a special election for the first week of November. Voters would weigh a new congressional map drawn by the Democratic-controlled Legislature.
“California will not sit by idly and watch this democracy waste away,” Newsom said Monday.
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Associated Press writers Tran Nguyen in Sacramento and Joey Cappelletti in Washington contributed.
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