Tit-for-tat needed to save democracy

Blue states typically have fewer obviously gerrymandered districts than red states, because Democrats basically believe in fair play and rely more on independent redistricting commissions.

Some say that we should not resort to tit-for-tat in response to what’s happening here in Texas, describing it as a race to the bottom. Robert Reich disagrees in todays piece.

If that’s the only way to stop a rigged GOP win in the 2026 midterms, it’s a necessity. California Governor Newsom has been careful to come up a plan that would only be triggered if new Texas maps are passed and would revert to the existing system of independent redistricting after.

Ironically, it this story plays out, the GOP stands to lose more than it gains. Because red states are so wildly gerrymandered, it’s hard to carve out more Republican seats without looking ridiculous and totally biased. Blue states, with more fairly drawn districts, have a far easier job.

https://robertreich.substack.com/p/what-blue-states-should-do-when-red