[This column was reported for Political Breakdown, a bimonthly newsletter offering analysis and context on Bay Area and California political news. Click here to subscribe .]

Gov. Gavin Newsom’s push to redraw California’s congressional district lines may provide more than just a boost to Democrats’ chances at winning the House — it could also satisfy liberal voters itching to adopt a more bare-knuckles approach to politics.

In his soft rollout of a plan to combat potential pro-Republican maps in Texas, Newsom has made clear that he wishes it didn’t have to come to this — that he supports California’s nonpartisan redistricting system. But he argues Republicans have left him no choice but to match their map machinations with a gerrymander of his own.

It may be the message that fits

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