Bulwark Takes: Trump Orders Abbott To Gerrymander Texas?! (w/ John Bisognano) Release Date: July 11, 2025
Introduction
In the latest episode of Bulwark Takes, host Lauren Egan delves into a critical political maneuver in Texas: Governor Greg Abbott's decision to call a special legislative session aimed at redrawing the state's congressional districts. Joining her is John Bisognano, President of the National Democratic Redistricting Committee, who provides expert insights into the implications of this move.
Background on Texas Redistricting
Lauren Egan introduces the topic by highlighting the significance of redistricting, which typically occurs every decade post-census. However, with Texas in the midst of a decade, the timing of Abbott's special session is unprecedented and politically charged.
Lauren Egan [00:00]: "Governor Abbott just called a special legislative session... it's also incredibly consequential to which party controls the house in 2026 and beyond."
Trump's Influence and Political Motivations
The conversation quickly shifts to the influence of former President Donald Trump and his political allies, who have been pressuring Abbott to undertake the redistricting process. Egan emphasizes the strategic timing, aiming to secure Republican dominance in the House during the 2026 midterms.
John Bisognano [01:52]: "The White House and Donald Trump are trying to fix the 2026 election... they're trying to gerrymander a state to an absurd degree to steal seats."
Bisognano criticizes this move as a blatant attempt to manipulate electoral outcomes, especially following the passage of the highly unpopular "Big Beautiful Bill."
Implications of Gerrymandering Texas
The potential redrawing of Texas's congressional districts could have far-reaching effects on political representation. Bisognano argues that the current maps are already gerrymandered against marginalized communities and that Abbott's actions aim to further dilute their voting power.
John Bisognano [03:35]: "We have been in litigation over the current Texas maps for three years in federal court because I believe the Texas maps currently are gerrymandered."
He firmly states that the Republican-controlled legislature is attempting to "steal seats," undermining the democratic process.
Tools and Strategies for Democrats to Counter Gerrymandering
When asked about possible Democratic responses, Bisognano outlines several strategies, including grassroots activism and urging constituents to contact their state legislators.
John Bisognano [05:25]: "People need to begin calling their state legislators and we need to amplify the reality of this."
He acknowledges the challenge, given the tight timeline but emphasizes the importance of public opposition to the proposed redistricting.
Potential Complications for Republicans
Bisognano highlights the inherent complexities Republicans face if they proceed with redistricting. He points out that outdated census data and shifting population dynamics, particularly growth in urban and minority communities, could render the new maps ineffective or counterproductive.
John Bisognano [08:26]: "...they may well be drawing themselves into places where there are pretty significant changes in population from what they think there are."
Additionally, altering district boundaries could inadvertently make Republican incumbents' districts more competitive, complicating their reelection campaigns.
Legal Challenges and Precedents
The episode draws parallels to North Carolina's recent redistricting controversies, suggesting that Texas is likely to face similar legal battles. Bisognano anticipates court challenges to any new maps, citing ongoing litigation and questionable directives from the Department of Justice.
John Bisognano [13:07]: "I think there is a very high likelihood that there's a legal challenge to any map that comes out of this process."
Broader Implications for Other States
Beyond Texas, Bisognano touches on the broader national trend of perpetual redistricting, mentioning states like Ohio, Florida, and Utah. He underscores the varying legal frameworks and political motivations driving redistricting efforts across the country.
John Bisognano [16:40]: "Ohio is a court mandated to redraw... it's an era of perpetual redistricting."
Conclusion
The episode concludes with Bisognano expressing concern over the continuous cycle of gerrymandering and its detrimental impact on democratic representation. He emphasizes the need for vigilance and activism among voters to counteract these politically motivated efforts.
John Bisognano [18:06]: "If you're going to be scared of the voters, if you're going to be scared to go to the ballot box, you're going to be scared of your party's ideas."
Lauren Egan wraps up by inviting Bisognano to return for future discussions, especially once the new maps are unveiled and their implications can be thoroughly analyzed.
Key Takeaways:
- Governor Abbott's Special Session: Aimed at redrawing Texas's congressional districts ahead of the 2026 midterms.
- Trump's Influence: Former President Trump's pressure is a driving force behind the redistricting efforts.
- Impact on Representation: Potential further dilution of minority and progressive voting power in Texas.
- Democratic Response: Emphasis on grassroots activism and legislative lobbying to oppose gerrymandering.
- Legal Challenges: Anticipated court battles similar to those in North Carolina, with dubious DOJ involvement.
- National Trend: Texas is part of a larger pattern of ongoing redistricting across various states.
Notable Quotes:
- Lauren Egan [00:00]: "Texas Governor Greg Abbott just called a special legislative session... it's also incredibly consequential to which party controls the house in 2026 and beyond."
- John Bisognano [01:52]: "The White House and Donald Trump are trying to fix the 2026 election... they're trying to gerrymander a state to an absurd degree to steal seats."
- John Bisognano [03:35]: "We have been in litigation over the current Texas maps for three years in federal court because I believe the Texas maps currently are gerrymandered."
- John Bisognano [05:25]: "People need to begin calling their state legislators and we need to amplify the reality of this."
- John Bisognano [08:26]: "...they may well be drawing themselves into places where there are pretty significant changes in population from what they think there are."
- John Bisognano [13:07]: "I think there is a very high likelihood that there's a legal challenge to any map that comes out of this process."
- John Bisognano [16:40]: "Ohio is a court mandated to redraw... it's an era of perpetual redistricting."
This comprehensive summary encapsulates the critical discussions from the episode, providing listeners with a clear understanding of the strategic redistricting efforts in Texas and their broader implications on American politics.