Talarico Files Proposal for Independent Redistricting Committee

State Rep. James Talarico (D) has filed a proposal to create an independent redistricting commission in Texas, aiming to remove partisan influence from the drawing of congressional and legislative maps.

The plan calls for a 14-member committee composed of five members from the majority party, five from the minority party, and four independents.

Speaking to POLITICO Playbook, state Rep. Talarico warned that the current push by Republican leaders to redraw Texas’ congressional districts mid-decade “is a threat to everyone, not just Democrats.” He accused the GOP of attempting to “insulate themselves from the voters,” which undermines representative democracy.

The proposal comes as the Texas Legislature holds hearings during its special session. The session was called to address disaster relief for those affected by the recent floods, so the inclusion of a mid-decade redistricting effort has drawn major backlash.

President Donald Trump (R) supports the redistricting effort, citing that it could lead to Republicans picking up five seats.

State Rep. Talarico, who has recently made national headlines with appearances on major platforms such as the Joe Rogan Experience to promote his vision of the Democratic Party as the party of the people, is also rumored to be considering a U.S. Senate run, a possibility he has not ruled out.

During an interview with NewsNation's Blake Burman on "The Hill," the Texas Democrat commented that he's waiting until the special session is over to announce his future plans.

"I am hoping to make a decision soon," he said, citing that he's been "distracted" by the session and focusing on opposing the mid-decade redistricting push.

In the senate race, incumbent Senator John Cornyn (R) faces opposition from Attorney General Ken Paxton (R) in a primary race that has controversy.

Former Rep. Colin Allred (D), who previously ran for Senator Ted Cruz's (R) seat is now vying to unseat Senator Cornyn.