Barack Obama Warns of Systematic Assault on Democracy in Texas Redistricting Fight

In a virtual meeting with Texas House Democrats on Thursday, former President Barack Obama voiced his concerns over ongoing redistricting efforts by Republicans, labeling them as a “threat to democracy.”

During the 30-minute conversation, obtained by CNN, Obama commended the Texas Democrats for resisting Republican attempts to manipulate congressional maps in their state, potentially securing up to five additional GOP House seats. He emphasized that such actions undermine democratic processes and urged other states to take action to counteract mid-decade gerrymandering.

“We cannot stand idly by while democracy is systematically undermined,” Obama stated. “Your courageous actions have sparked a response in California and other states, encouraging them to address this issue and strive for fairer representation.”

Obama expressed his hope that future redistricting would be handled impartially, with an independent commission or neutral approach ensuring a level playing field for both Democrats and Republicans. However, he noted that recent Republican strategies, such as splitting Democratic voting blocs and packing them into single districts, are unfair and against the principles of democracy.

Though he did not mention President Donald Trump explicitly, Obama highlighted several concerns related to the current administration, including voter suppression, questioning election results, unilateral executive actions, militarization of cities, politicization of justice departments, and the military. He underscored the importance of upholding fair voting rights, fair maps, and a level competitive playing field for everyone, not just one party.

Obama has been selective with his public statements since President Trump’s return to the White House in January. At a private fundraiser in July, he encouraged Democrats to be more assertive in challenging the current administration, while last week he criticized Republicans in Texas for engaging in a “power grab that threatens our democracy” during the redistricting debates.

Next week, Obama is scheduled to speak further on redistricting issues at a Martha’s Vineyard fundraiser for the National Democratic Redistricting Committee. As of Thursday, Texas Democrats signaled their intention to conclude the nearly two-week standoff over redistricting, paving the way for the state legislature to approve maps backed by President Trump.