California Governor Gavin Newsom and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced on Friday that California will hold a special election in early November to present a redistricting plan to voters. This move comes in response to the ongoing controversy surrounding Texas’s redistricting efforts.
Newsom stated that this plan would allow Democrats to gain five seats if adopted, providing a way to bypass the state’s independent redistricting commission temporarily. The goal is to implement a new congressional map before the 2026 elections.
During a press conference on Friday, Newsom emphasized that this action is a response to Texas and will nullify their efforts. He highlighted the transparency of California’s approach and the importance of seeking the consent and support of the state’s residents.
California would be the first Democratic-led state to pursue new congressional district lines ahead of the 2026 midterms in reaction to Texas’s redistricting push.
Newsom criticized President Donald Trump and Texas Governor Greg Abbott for their actions, suggesting that they are seeking political gains through redistricting efforts.
Meanwhile, Texas Democrats have fled the state to prevent quorum and stop the vote on the redistricting plan proposed by Texas Republicans. They argue that the plan is unconstitutional and driven by partisanship.
House Speaker Pelosi defended the Texas Democrats’ actions, framing it as a defense of democracy and fair elections. She vowed not to let Trump undermine the electoral process.
Arrest warrants were issued for the absent Texas Democrats, but they are seen as largely symbolic as they only apply within state lines. California State Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas indicated that the new maps will be released soon for public review.
Overall, the political landscape in both California and Texas is evolving rapidly as these redistricting battles unfold.
This report includes contributions from Fox News’ Emma Colton and The Associated Press.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning about certain hand sanitizers that may contain methanol, a type of alcohol that can be toxic when absorbed through the skin or ingested.
The FDA identified several products that were labeled to contain ethanol (also known as ethyl alcohol) but tested positive for methanol contamination. Methanol exposure can result in nausea, vomiting, headache, blurred vision, permanent blindness, seizures, coma, permanent damage to the nervous system or death.
The agency advised consumers to check for the presence of methanol in hand sanitizer products and to dispose of them properly. The FDA also recommended washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds as the best way to prevent the spread of germs.
Consumers were urged to seek immediate medical attention if they had been exposed to hand sanitizers containing methanol and were experiencing symptoms. The FDA said it would continue to monitor the situation and take action as needed to protect public health.
