California Labor Federation Advocates for Redrawing Congressional Map
A major labor organization in California has endorsed the redrawing of the congressional map to counteract efforts by former President Trump aimed at bolstering Republican influence, particularly in Texas, ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.
On Tuesday, the California Labor Federation voted unanimously to take action for the November ballot. This proposal has the support of Governor Gavin Newsom and several Democratic leaders in the state. It seeks to temporarily alter the boundaries of congressional districts established by an independent commission four years ago.
As a result of this redistricting, Republicans in California could potentially see a reduction of up to six seats in the state’s 52-member delegation to the U.S. House of Representatives. Once the California Legislature reconvenes after summer break on August 18th, they will cast votes on statewide measures regarding special elections.
“President Trump has stated that Republicans deserve five additional congressional votes in Texas. They don’t have the right to skew the 2026 elections. California unions stand united against efforts that test our democracy,” said Lorena Gonzalez, a representative of the Federation. “The California Labor Party is committed to opposing Trump’s anti-worker policies.”
Redistricting, a detailed process that adjusts the 435 congressional districts nationwide, typically occurs every ten years coinciding with the U.S. Census. Changes in population can affect congressional seat allocations, as seen when California lost seats after the 2020 Census for the first time in its history.
This process has historically been controlled by elected officials to maintain political advantages or protect incumbents. However, voters in California chose in 2010 to create an independent committee to develop congressional maps, aimed at better representing communities and ensuring fairer political representation.
The new voting laws championed by Newsom and others could empower state legislators to define district boundaries for the next three election cycles if Texas agrees to adjust its own districts to boost Republican seats. After the 2030 Census, the drawing of districts will return to the Independent Commission.
The California Labor Federation has committed resources to support multi-million-dollar initiatives aimed at midterm constituency voting, beyond their existing funding for next year’s competitive congressional races, as shared by anonymous sources familiar with the strategy.
A spokesperson for organizations working against changes to the state’s redistricting process noted that Charles Munger Jr., the son of a billionaire who has financially supported efforts to establish an independent committee, is focused on preventing any dilution of those reforms.
“Although Charles Munger has stayed out of politics since 2016, he is dedicated to safeguarding the reforms he’s helped implement, particularly nonpartisan district adjustments,” stated Amy Thoma, a spokesperson for the coalition. “His past success in passing voting measures in California equips him with the knowledge to advocate for further successful initiatives. We’re well-equipped to support the coalition’s efforts.”
