Texas Republicans released a new congressional map that creates five new districts.
The redistricting initiative began after the Justice Department sent a letter to Governor Greg Abbott (R) earlier this month, voicing concerns about four congressional districts. According to the letter, the state’s 18th, 29th, and 33rd congressional districts “currently constitute unconstitutional ‘coalition districts’ and we urge the state of Texas to rectify these race-based considerations from these specific districts.”
“When race is the predominant factor above other traditional redistricting considerations including compactness, contiguity, and respect for political subdivision lines, the State of Texas must demonstrate a compelling state interest to survive strict scrutiny,” the letter read.
The new map is believed to create Republican-leaning seats.
Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin condemned the plan. “As Texas families grieve for loved ones lost after devastating flooding, Texas Governor Greg Abbott remains hellbent on using their pain as a political opportunity to placate Donald Trump,” he said in a statement. “The newly introduced Texas maps are a blatant power grab by Texas Republicans, designed to further dilute minority representation in Texas. Texas is one of the five most diverse states in the country, and its congressional districts already provide too few opportunities for people of color to choose their representatives.”
This newest attempt to save Republicans from the wrath of voters after they passed Trump’s budget betrayal is an assault on Texas voters and a likely violation of the Voting Rights Act,” Martin alleged. “It won’t work. Texas Democrats have fought tooth and nail against these maps, and the DNC will continue to support them. We will be exploring all options to fight back against this blatant gerrymander. Meanwhile, Texas Republicans should end this charade right now and focus on delivering flood relief for Texans in need.”
