Trump’s Bold Midterm Power Play: Gerrymandering the 2026 Election—In Plain Sight
Former President Donald Trump is already working to shape the 2026 midterms — not by winning over voters, but by redrawing the electoral map to his advantage.
At a recent White House event, Trump confidently claimed his new “One Big Beautiful Bill” would deliver a Republican victory in 2026.
But polls suggest otherwise: A CNN poll found 61% oppose the bill, with only 29% believing it will help the economy.
Behind the scenes, Trump is pressuring red states — starting with Texas — to redraw congressional districts mid-decade. Gov.
Jeffries: “Elected officials should earn the support of the voters that we hope to represent. Republicans want a country where politicians choose their voters, not the other way around. It reeks of desperation, and we’re going to do everything that we can do in Texas and beyond to respond.”
— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar.com) July 14, 2025 at 9:32 PM
Greg Abbott has added redistricting to a special legislative session, citing a DOJ letter that questions the legality of four minority-majority districts.
Trump’s goal? Gain five new GOP seats in Texas alone.
Critics call it what it is: a partisan, racially charged gerrymander aimed at suppressing Black and Latino voting power.
Even some Texas Republicans are nervous — pushing too far could backfire in a swing year.
Democrats are weighing responses, including a potential walkout to deny quorum — a risky but symbolic move that could delay the redistricting vote.
In blue states like California, Gov. Gavin Newsom is exploring counter-moves to redraw maps in Democrats’ favor.
Trump’s strategy is simple: redraw maps now, benefit later — even if courts strike them down post-election.
As Rep. Sylvia Garcia (D-TX) put it:
“This is a brazen, racist power grab.”
And the stakes couldn’t be higher: the future of the House — and the country — may hinge on who controls the map, not just the vote.
