Catalyst California’s response to Trump’s redistricting overreach

In a multiracial democracy like ours, the people should choose their representatives, not the other way around. But Trump is trying to invert that equation: because he knows his policies are widely unpopular with Americans, he’s colluding with the Texas governor to rig the midterm elections a year before they even happen.

Their proposed gerrymander would redraw electoral districts, making them less democratic and less representative, to achieve their desired political outcome regardless of voter preferences. Their proposal is also causing a chain reaction, forcing governors across the country to respond.

And then last week, at a press conference where Gov. Gavin Newsom announced his plan to punch back, masked and uniformed federal officers showed up in force, sending a clear threat to those who oppose their lawless power grab. This is only the latest attempt by the MAGA regime to use force to silence their political opponents.

As Trump’s popularity plummets due to his economic mismanagement, his Billionaires First budget, and his assaults on the education, health, and well-being of working people and communities of color, he’s using the military to attack our democracy—from ICE raids in Los Angeles to the occupation of Washington D.C.

We must continue the fight for a better, stronger democracy where everyone has an equal voice and representation—and where the ballot, not the bayonet, decides our future.