California redistricting would be 'triggered' by Texas maps, Newsom says

The outcome of the dueling state efforts could decide which party controls the House of Representatives after the 2026 midterm elections.

Nothing official can be done until state lawmakers return from recess to Sacramento on Aug. 18.

WASHINGTON — A last-ditch effort by California Democrats to redraw the state’s congressional map for the 2026 election, countering a similar push by Texas Republicans , is now up against the clock.

Gov. Gavin Newsom said Monday that Democrats are moving forward with a plan to put a rare mid-decade redistricting plan before voters on Nov. 4 . But state lawmakers will craft a “trigger” for the legislation, he said, meaning California voters would only vote on the measure if Texas moved forward with its own plans to redraw Congressional boundaries to add