Despite supporting independent redistricting, former President Obama endorsed California Democrats' proposal to redraw the state's congressional districts to counter efforts by President Trump and GOP state leaders to push mid-decade partisan gerrymandering.

California’s summer of legislation has taken a sharp turn away from laws for the Golden State to how California can influence Congress. Governor Gavin Newsom signed a

SACRAMENTO, Calif. - California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed legislation Thursday afternoon that will move forward a partisan redistricting plan aimed at winning Democrats five more U.S. House seats in the 2026 election. Newsom's approval will allow for a special election, leaving redistricting up to California voters.

The special election is a response by Democrats to Texas Republicans’ push to redraw their state’s congressional map at President Donald Trump’s urging.

California lawmakers passed a legislative package Thursday advancing a partisan redistricting plan aimed at winning Democrats five more U.S. House seats in the 2026 elections.