1. United States
2. Texas
3. Letter

I am writing to express my outrage over your decision, announced on July 10, 2025, to initiate a mid‑decade redrawing of Texas’ congressional and county maps ahead of the 2026 elections. This power grab is a shocking abuse of your responsibility to protect democracy, not manipulate it. Yes, Texas faced deadly floods, and yet you rushed to prioritize partisan gerrymandering over crucial emergency response, warning systems, and relief for affected communities. Democratic leaders from Marc Veasey to Hakeem Jeffries condemned this move as a “craven power grab,” and I wholeheartedly agree. Your justification to counter alleged racial gerrymanders rings hollow. This cynically timed “solution” inflames voter suppression in communities of color. Tarrant County’s precinct lines were altered under explicit admission that this was “purely partisan,” designed to dilute minority votes. People spoke out, some were even removed from meetings, but their voices were ignored. We all know what this really is: a blatant attempt to protect a shrinking GOP majority in the U.S. House, prioritized over fair representation and civic trust. Trump advisors have pushed this plan, and you’re following suit. But history shows such overreach can, and does, backfire. Texas Republicans expanded seats in 2021 only to lose ground in 2018. I demand that you abort this partisan redistricting plan. Instead, convene a bipartisan, independent commission, guided by transparency, fairness, and the Voting Rights Act. The people of Texas deserve real representation, not maps engineered for political gain. If you continue down this path, know that I, as a voter, taxpayer, and engaged member of my community, will actively support lawsuits, ballot initiatives, and civic campaigns to fight this illegitimate power grab. I will demand accountability at the polls and hold you responsible for subverting democracy. There is still time to do the right thing. Stand on the side of fair maps, fair elections, and a fair future for every Texan.