California Governor Gavin Newsom is advancing a Democratic-backed initiative to redraw the state's congressional districts in response to a Republican-led redistricting effort in Texas that would add five new GOP seats. The plan aims to create five additional Democratic U.S. House seats in California, effectively countering the Texas move. Newsom has secured support from local Democratic leaders and is preparing to place the proposal on the ballot for a November special election, with a tight legislative deadline looming. The initiative seeks to override the state's independent redistricting commission and involves a proposed $250 million expenditure to redraw all 52 districts. California Republicans have filed multiple lawsuits challenging the plan, alleging legislative procedural violations and lack of transparency, but the California Supreme Court has rejected their requests to block or delay the redistricting effort, allowing the legislature to proceed. Former President Barack Obama has publicly endorsed Newsom's approach, calling it a "responsible" response to GOP tactics and emphasizing the need to prevent partisan gerrymandering from rigging elections. Polls conducted by a Democratic pollster indicate about 57% support among Californians for the redistricting measure. The political battle over redistricting in California reflects a broader national struggle over congressional representation ahead of upcoming elections.