Supreme Court Allows Texas Congressional Map Change Despite Partisan Gerrymandering Concerns

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton stated on Friday that the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision upholding Texas’ redrawn congressional map confirms that states may draw electoral districts based on political considerations, a practice he said Democrats have frequently utilized in their controlled areas.

Paxton addressed this point during Newsmax’s “Rob Schmitt Tonight” program, indicating that the ruling aligns with earlier court decisions regarding redistricting. He believes partisan gerrymandering is permissible if not tied to racial factors, and Texas’s new map reflects a legitimate political strategy.

The Supreme Court granted an emergency stay on Thursday for Texas, allowing it to employ the revised boundaries for the upcoming 2026 midterm elections while litigation over the matter continues. Paxton asserted that Democrats have long engaged in manipulating congressional districts to secure political advantages, citing instances of states with significant Republican populations electing Democratic delegations despite lacking Republican representation.

“It’s been going on for years. The Democrats haven’t shown any restraint,” said Ken Paxton, emphasizing that critics overlook a critical aspect: the Supreme Court has previously permitted such practices when committed by opponents. “It’s hypocritical for them to complain about what Texas is doing now.”

Paxton further explained, “The court allowed this long before us. They’ve consistently ruled against strict limits on partisan redistricting.” He clarified that as long as racial lines aren’t drawn, districts can be adjusted purely for political benefit—exactly the approach taken by the Texas legislature.

Adding to his argument, Paxton hopes other Republican-led states will follow suit in embracing this tactic. “It’s high time Republicans started doing it,” he expressed enthusiasm. “I hope we’re setting a precedent for other GOP states.”

This decision coincides with several states under Republican leadership redrawing their congressional boundaries following public calls from figures like President Donald Trump to strengthen party control in the House of Representatives.
Title: Supreme Court Rulings Allow Texas to Proceed with Partisan Redistricting Despite Concerns

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton voiced support for an ongoing legal decision. The U.S. Supreme Court’s recent ruling allows states to redraw congressional districts based on partisan goals, according to Ken Paxton.

Paxton made these comments during Newsmax’s “Rob Schmitt Tonight” show, where he described the high court’s move as consistent with its previous rulings on redistricting matters. He believes that political parties have long exploited such decisions for advantage.

The Court issued an emergency injunction Thursday, permitting Texas to use its newly drawn boundaries in elections but stopping further legal action until a full review is conducted. Ken Paxton pointed out that this situation mirrors similar tactics employed by Democrats when controlling state legislatures.

“It’s been happening,” said Ken Paxton about partisan gerrymandering. “The Democrats have shown no restraint, not just here in Texas, but across the nation.”

He noted ongoing criticism from opponents of redistricting reforms: “They continue to protest while using this same strategy themselves.”