As redistricting battles continue to escalate across the nation, some big names are speaking out to voice their opinions.

Former President Barack Obama gives his approval of California Gov. Gavin Newsom's redistricting strategy as Texas debates over its proposed plan.

President Barack Obama on Wednesday praised California’s redistricting efforts, arguing that the state’s move is necessary to combat “partisan” gerrymandering in Texas. Texas launched an effort earlier this year backed by President Donald Trump to redraw district lines to boost the number of seats Republicans hold in the House by five.

Obama's comments came as efforts in Texas, encouraged by President Trump, aim to strengthen GOP control ahead of next year's elections.

They want to do this by passing a state constitutional amendment via a ballot initiative during the 2026 general election.

California voters will be asked in a Nov. 4 special election to waive the state’s independent redistricting process and approve new partisan congressional maps that favor Democrats. California’s ballot measure is the latest volley in a national political brawl that could alter the outcome of the 2026 midterm elections and the balance of power in the U.

The Texas Senate has approved a Trump backed redistricting bill that could gain the GOP five House seats in 2026.