Former President Donald Trump has hailed the recent approval of a redistricting plan by Texas lawmakers as a significant victory for the Republican Party. The plan aims to create up to five new congressional seats that lean Republican. Trump celebrated this development on Truth Social, stating that Texas has once again proven its loyalty to the GOP. He described the victory as a turning point not just for Texas, but for the entire nation.

"Big WIN for the Great State of Texas!!! Everything Passed, on our way to FIVE more Congressional seats and saving your Rights, your Freedoms, and your Country, itself," Trump wrote. He encouraged other Republican-led states to emulate Texas, suggesting that this could lead to an additional 100 seats for the GOP nationwide.

Trump also criticized mail-in voting, calling it a "total fraud" and advocated for a return to paper ballots, claiming it would be more efficient and reliable.

The Texas House passed the new congressional map with an 88-52 party-line vote, dismissing objections from Democrats. This move is seen as an effort to strengthen the GOP's position in Congress ahead of the 2026 elections.

However, Democrats have expressed strong opposition to the redistricting plan. They argue that it undermines minority voting power and is racially discriminatory. "This part of the fight is over, but it is merely the first chapter… Our best shot is in the courts. This is not over. We will continue fighting," said Rep. Gene Wu of Houston.

Democratic representatives have characterized the redistricting process as a "sham" and a "racist power grab," particularly targeting African American and Latino communities. Rep. Chris Turner stated, "This illegal and rigged, mid-decade redistricting scheme is dividing our state and our country."

In defense of the new map, Republicans argue that it reflects population growth and is necessary for fair voter representation. Rep. Todd Hunter emphasized that the new districts are based on political performance.

In a related development, California Democrats have proposed their own redistricting plan, which aims to create five new Democratic-leaning congressional districts. This move is seen as a counter to Texas's Republican map, highlighting the intense competition between the two parties as they prepare for the upcoming elections.