1:56 The initial draft of California’s revised congressional district maps has been unveiled. KGO-TV
The suggested new congressional maps in California, which are likely to be presented to voters during a special election this autumn, suggest that the newly drawn district boundaries could enable Democrats to gain five Republican seats and strengthen approximately five Democratic incumbents in competitive districts.
The updated maps, made available on the California State Assembly website on Friday evening, are preliminary proposals and may be modified or revised by the state legislature, which is scheduled to begin its work next week.
This legislative move follows California Gov. Gavin Newsom’s announcement on Thursday regarding a special election for new maps, in response to the mid-decade redistricting efforts being advocated by Republicans in Texas.
California Governor Gavin Newsom addresses the audience as he announces the redrawing of California’s congressional maps, urging voters to support a ballot measure in Los Angeles, Calif. August 14, 2025. Mike Blake/Reuters
The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC), the electoral wing of House Democrats, took responsibility on Friday for presenting the maps to the California legislature, asserting in a statement that they expect broad support from California legislators and the voting public.
"We believe this proposal will receive extensive backing from both California office holders and diverse stakeholders throughout the state," DCCC Executive Director Julie Merz stated.
"We will not remain passive while Republicans attempt to manipulate the election in their favor and select their own voters. It is increasingly evident that Republicans will go to any lengths to safeguard their slim majority because they realize they cannot prevail based on their dismal legislative track record that has increased costs and stripped healthcare from millions, all to provide tax breaks for the ultra-wealthy."
Paul Mitchell, a specialist in redistricting and data, informed ABC News San Francisco station KGO-TV in an interview on Friday afternoon prior to the release of the draft maps that eight of the suggested revised districts remain unchanged; another 20 have minimal alterations, with the overall aim being "pushing back against Texas without radically altering the congressional district boundaries."
The initial draft of California’s revised congressional district maps has been unveiled. KGO-TV
Mitchell further noted that in addition to shifting five Republican-held seats to favor Democrats — as a response to the proposed congressional maps in Texas that could convert five seats to favor Republicans — the plan also reinforces the districts of about five Democratic "frontline candidates" who are facing tougher challenges from Republicans.
"[The legislature has] some time next week to finalize it, along with all the other language for a statewide ballot measure. I believe the key point for voters is that this serves as a means to counter what Texas Republicans are doing, what Trump is advocating," Mitchell told KGO-TV.
Republicans continue to express discontent, claiming that Newsom’s initiative for new maps is driven by political motives.
NRCC chair Rep. Richard Hudson (R-N.C.) stated in a message prior to the proposed maps being released: "Gavin Newsom has failed to address the homelessness, crime, drug, and cost crises afflicting the Golden State. Now he is undermining California’s Constitution and disenfranchising voters to boost his Presidential aspirations.
"Californians reject Newsom's maneuver because they refuse to allow a self-serving politician to rig the system to advance his career. The NRCC is ready to challenge this unlawful power grab in the courts and at the ballot box to thwart Newsom’s plans."
Sourse: abcnews.go.com
