James Gallagher, a California Assemblymember and the Republican leader of the California State Assembly, has publicly criticized Governor Gavin Newsom’s proposed redistricting plan in a series of tweets posted on July 25 and 26, 2025. Gallagher questioned both the constitutionality and fairness of Newsom’s approach to redrawing political boundaries in the state.
On July 25, Gallagher commented on Newsom’s proposal by sharing an alternative map and stating, “As @GavinNewsom ponders his unconstitutional redistricting plan… I like the look of this map. I call it the Two State solution.”
Continuing his criticism on July 26, Gallagher wrote, “Gavin continues to show he is completely devoid of principle. The “but Texas” argument is unconvincing and disingenuous. Texas voters didn’t change their constitution to provide for an independent citizen commission to draw their lines. Ours did.” He further emphasized that partisan gerrymandering contradicts the intent behind California’s independent redistricting process.
Later that day, Gallagher added, “Ok ok I’ll add Orange County (geez so sensitive) My point is this: there is a lot of California that is ‘red’ or, more importantly, feels completely overlooked and ignored by the current political establishment. How much more will they feel so by a shady gerrymander effort that”
Gallagher’s remarks come amid ongoing debates about redistricting in California. In 2008 and 2010, California voters approved measures establishing an independent citizen commission tasked with drawing legislative district boundaries—a move designed to limit partisan influence in the process. This stands in contrast to states like Texas where lawmakers retain control over redistricting decisions.
The controversy reflects broader national discussions over gerrymandering and fair representation. Critics argue that attempts to bypass or undermine independent commissions can erode public trust in elections and leave certain communities feeling politically marginalized.
