Texas Democrat Warns Trump, GOP Trying to “Rig” Election Through Redistricting
Texas state Rep. James Talarico (D) is sounding the alarm on what he calls a deliberate effort by President Trump and Republican leadership to manipulate upcoming elections through an aggressive redistricting push.
In a recent interview with NewsNation’s Blake Burman, Talarico criticized the plan being advanced during Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s special legislative session, which includes the possibility of redrawing the state’s political boundaries ahead of the 2026 midterms.
“This is dangerous for everyone not just Democrats,” Talarico warned. “What President Trump and Governor Abbott are doing is trying to rig the next election. That might sound extreme, but by redrawing the maps mid-decade, they’re attempting to shield themselves from the will of the voters.”
Originally called to address various policy issues, the special session has taken on new significance as Governor Abbott and Texas Republicans push to carve out more GOP-friendly districts. Trump has reportedly urged Texas lawmakers to create at least five new Republican districts, a move that could tilt the balance of power in the state even further right.
Critics, including Talarico, see the effort as part of a broader trend that could spark a domino effect in states across the country. With Texas signaling early redistricting action, other states both red and blue are weighing similar moves. Ohio, for example, is already revisiting its maps after its last effort lacked bipartisan support, giving Republicans another shot at expanding their advantage. Meanwhile, Democratic-controlled states like California and New York have indicated they’re prepared to redraw maps if Republicans go first.
“This is how elections are stolen in plain sight not through ballots, but by shaping who gets to vote where,” Talarico said.
As the redistricting battle heats up, Talarico himself is contemplating a leap to higher office. The state lawmaker confirmed he’s eyeing a potential Senate run and plans to make a final decision once the special session ends in late August.
The high-stakes maneuvering in Texas is being closely watched nationwide. While Republicans argue that mid-decade redistricting is legal and within their rights, Democrats warn it could erode public trust and further undermine the fairness of elections at every level.