Blog Post
We told you so! Texas’ Map is Struck Down as Racial Gerrymander
In a victory for fair representation, Texas’ mid-decade racial gerrymander of its congressional map has been struck down
Kampanya
Texas Redistricting: Stop Abbott & Trump’s Power Grab
Ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, Governor Greg Abbott and Texas Republicans, responding to pressure from former President Trump, have introduced new congressional maps aimed at increasing Republican power in the state.
Texas Republicans Unveil Mid-Decade Congressional Maps
On July 30, 2025, Governor Greg Abbott and Texas Republicans, under pressure from former President Trump, introduced new congressional maps designed explicitly to expand Republican control before the 2026 midterm elections. This controversial “mid-decade redistricting” breaks established norms and could add up to five new Republican seats.
Why Mid-Decade Redistricting Matters
Typically, states redraw congressional districts once every ten years, following new census data. However, Texas Republicans are pushing for unprecedented mid-decade redistricting. This move is widely viewed as a blatant political maneuver to:
- Solidify GOP power by adding 5 Republican-leaning districts.
- Dilute minority and working-class votes in key Texas communities.
- Reduce the number of competitive districts significantly.
These changes threaten democracy by allowing politicians to choose their voters, rather than the other way around.
Key Impacts on Texas Communities
The proposed maps specifically target Democratic and minority communities in major Texas cities, including:
- Austin: Potentially combining Representatives Greg Casar and Lloyd Doggett’s districts to eliminate a Democratic seat.
- Houston and Dallas: Dividing and diluting historically Black and Latino neighborhoods to weaken their voting power.
- South Texas: Redrawing lines to flip historically competitive districts to solidly Republican.
National Implications of the Texas Redistricting Plan
This move by Texas Republicans sets a dangerous precedent for democracy nationwide:
- Trump is actively encouraging other states to follow Texas’ lead.
- The outcome could determine control of the U.S. House of Representatives after the 2026 elections.
- A national wave of mid-decade redistricting could drastically shift the balance of political power.
Watch: Emily Eby French Speaks Out
Just because Trump’s DOJ says it’s legal doesn’t mean it is…and it sure as hell isn’t fair, good, or right for Texans.– Emily Eby French, Policy Director, Common Cause Texas
How You Can Take Action
- Submit Public Comments
Make your voice heard by submitting public testimony:
Public Comment Tips:
- State your name, city, and congressional district.
- Explain how your community will be impacted.
- Clearly oppose mid-decade redistricting and highlight the need for fair representation.
- Need a testimony example? Watch here!
- Donate to Support Our Fight
We’re mobilizing Texans, attending hearings, and preparing lawsuits to challenge these maps.
Donate Now to Defend Democracy
- Join Rallies and Protests
Participate in statewide events to show lawmakers Texans oppose gerrymandering.
Stay Informed: Explore Interactive Maps
See exactly how your community’s district boundaries could change under this proposal.
Why Common Cause Texas is Leading This Fight
Common Cause Texas is the state’s leading nonpartisan watchdog organization dedicated to ensuring fair representation and protecting democracy. Our team is committed to:
- Challenging partisan gerrymandering in court.
- Mobilizing communities across Texas.
- Advocating for transparent, community-driven redistricting processes.
Spread the Word
Use #FairMapsTX on social media and share this resource widely:
- Share on Twitter
- Share on Facebook
Additional Resources and News Coverage
Stay updated with reliable, recent news coverage:
