Elections

A person in a suit speaks emphatically into microphones at a press conference inside the California State Capitol, with two other people standing behind them.

Politics

California GOP takes Newsom to court over redistricting, again. Will Trump sue next?

California Republicans are suing again to try and keep Gov. Newsom and Democrats’ redistricting plan off voters’ ballots. President Trump floated the idea of suing, too

By

Maya C. Miller

and

Alexei Koseff

• August 26, 2025

A person wearing a blue suit stands in front of two American flags while as they look straight off into the distance during a press conference.

Politics

Democrats wanted someone to ‘punch back.’ They got him when Newsom took on Texas

Democrats are searching for a leader to take on President Trump. Gov. Gavin Newsom embraced that role with new online trolling and a proposed gerrymander to counter a GOP power play in Texas.

By

Alexei Koseff

• August 21, 2025

A lawmaker writes on a sheet of paper as they sit in front of a desk while surrounded by other lawmakers during a press conference.

Politics

Gavin Newsom’s redistricting plan is on its way to voters. What you need to know

Many California Democrats are reluctant to give up the state's independently drawn congressional districts, but they say it's a necessary step to counter gerrymanders in Republican states.

By

Maya C. Miller

and

Jeanne Kuang

• August 21, 2025

A person in a suit speaks emphatically at a podium surrounded by microphones, with others standing nearby. A large sign next to the podium reads, "Defend Fair Elections."

Politics

What about Texas? California Republicans pressed for answers in redistricting fight

Texas and President Donald Trump struck first in a gerrymandering battle that could tilt the 2026 midterms. That puts California Republicans in a bind as they contest Gov. Gavin Newsom's redistricting.

By

Jeanne Kuang

and

Maya C. Miller

• August 21, 2025

Person smiling outdoors, standing in front of leafy green plants.

Politics

California Rep. Young Kim’s newest challenger: An Orange County immigration lawyer

An immigration attorney who represented an ICE-detained Orange County father of three military sons is the latest Democrat to challenge Republican Rep. Young Kim in a district that could be drawn redder by Gov. Gavin Newsom’s gerrymander.

By

Maya C. Miller

• August 20, 2025

Two people sit behind a panel desk in a hearing room. One looks down at notes while the other, seated in the center, looks forward with a neutral expression. A microphone and nameplate reading “SABRINA CERVANTES” are visible on the desk, with a blurred figure in the foreground facing them.

Politics

‘Moral conflict’ drives Democratic doubts about Gavin Newsom’s redistricting plan

California voters backed independent redistricting for congressional seats and giving it up to counter President Trump creates a moral conflict even for Democrats.

By

Jeanne Kuang

• August 20, 2025

A person in a suit gestures toward a large poster of California’s district map labeled “Rigged Map” in red text, during a press conference inside a government building with ornate arches and a domed ceiling. Several people and news microphones are visible around them.

Politics

Republicans sue to block Newsom’s gerrymandering, point to legislative gamesmanship

California Democrats used a common legislative tactic called "gut and amend" to rush legislation for a special election on new election maps. Republicans say that violates the state constitution.

By

Maya C. Miller

• August 19, 2025

Four tall tables with white dividers on them that say "vote" next to an image of the American flag as people fill out their voting ballots. One person, in the center, wears a black hat, shirt and shorts, as they look down at their ballot.

Politics

Gavin Newsom wants an election in a hurry on his gerrymander. Here’s what has to happen

California counties are scrambling to prepare for Gov. Gavin Newsom's special election on redrawing congressional districts for the 2026 midterm. The effort will cost tens of millions of dollars.

By

Maya C. Miller

• August 19, 2025

This image captures a close-up moment of the rally. The speaker at the podium is gesturing emphatically with arms outstretched, underscoring the intensity of the speech. The podium sign reads “Election Rigging Response Act,” and the California state flag is prominently displayed behind, reinforcing the political context. Supporters in the background hold signs with slogans such as “Defend Democracy.” The photo conveys a sense of urgency, leadership, and collective mobilization around protecting election integrity.

Politics

5 things to know about Gavin Newsom’s plan to redraw California’s election maps

California has an overwhelmingly Democratic delegation in Congress. Gov. Newsom’s plan could give his party five more seats and offset a Texas gerrymander.

By

Alexei Koseff

• August 18, 2025

Gold-toned illustration of Gavin Newsom set against a background of the U.S. Capitol building, California district maps and the dotted outline of voting districts

Politics

Find out if your vote could be affected by Newsom’s redistricting plans

Gov. Gavin Newsom is proposing new California congressional maps that would dilute Republican votes. Here's how your vote could change in 2026 if his measure passes.

By

Jeremia Kimelman

and

Alexei Koseff

• August 15, 2025