As the 2026 midterm elections approach, states like Texas and California are working to redraw their congressional maps. These efforts aim to influence the balance of power in Congress.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s new maps could allow Republicans to gain five additional seats in the House. In response, California Governor Gavin Newsom has proposed his own redrawn maps to potentially secure five more seats for Democrats.
In Washington state, Governor Bob Ferguson’s office was contacted regarding the possibility of redistricting. Ferguson provided a statement expressing his stance on the matter.
“What President Trump is asking for is deeply undemocratic and wrong,” Ferguson stated. “It says a lot about his policies that he believes they need to rig the system in order to maintain their majority in Congress.”
Ferguson also voiced support for Governor Newsom’s decision to propose a temporary change to California’s redistricting process.
“Washington state requires a constitutional amendment to change our redistricting process,” Ferguson stated.
He further emphasized his commitment to uphold state values and ensure adherence to the rule of law.
“As governor, I will continue to use all tools available to uphold our values and ensure the president is following the rule of law,” Ferguson said.
Ferguson noted that achieving redistricting changes in Washington would require a two-thirds vote in both the state House and Senate, a majority that Democrats currently do not possess. This makes redistricting efforts in Washington state unlikely at this time.
