Texas lawmakers have given final approval to a controversial new electoral map that strengthens Republican control of the state’s congressional delegation, drawing sharp criticism from Democrats and civil rights groups who argue it dilutes the voting power of minority communities.
The redistricting plan, passed largely along party lines, increases the number of safely Republican districts while weakening the influence of fast-growing Latino and Black populations. Despite people of colour driving nearly all of Texas’s population growth over the past decade, the new map reduces their opportunities for political representation.
Supporters of the plan defended it as a fair reflection of population shifts and a necessary measure to maintain balanced districts. “This map ensures that every Texan has equal representation under the law,” Republican leaders said during the debate.
Democrats, however, condemned the move as a blatant attempt at gerrymandering, warning that it could face lengthy legal challenges. “This is about holding onto power, not about fair representation,” one Democratic lawmaker argued.
The map is expected to shape the state’s political landscape for the next decade, further solidifying Texas’s role as a Republican stronghold heading into the 2026 elections.
