Obama Rallies Texas Democrats in Illinois, Backing Fight Against Gerrymandering

Former President Barack Obama virtually rallied Texas House Democrats in Illinois on Thursday, August 14, 2025, offering robust support for their ongoing walkout. The Democrats left Texas to prevent Republicans from passing new, GOP-favorable congressional maps, a move Obama hailed as crucial in the broader fight against partisan gerrymandering.

Obama underscored the significance of their actions, stating that their courage is inspiring other states, including California, to push back against mid-decade redistricting. He encouraged the legislators to continue their efforts, framing their stand as a vital part of a long struggle to protect democratic freedoms.

Texas Rep. Gene Wu, chair of the House Democratic Caucus, confirmed the caucus’s enthusiasm for Obama’s involvement, seeing it as validation of their party’s support “at every level.” Wu noted that the virtual meeting from an “undisclosed location” was necessitated by “Republican threats and surveillance,” which he attributed to desperation from Texas Gov. Greg Abbott.

Former Attorney General Eric Holder, chair of the National Democratic Redistricting Committee (NDRC), also joined the call, updating the caucus on strategies to counter Republican redistricting efforts nationwide. Obama is scheduled to further champion this cause at an NDRC fundraiser in Martha’s Vineyard on August 19, alongside Holder and Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi.

The Texas Democrats’ potential return to their state is contingent on two key developments expected today, Friday, August 15: the adjournment of the legislature’s first special session and the introduction of California’s counter-redistricting proposal. California Governor Gavin Newsom announced Thursday his intent to place new congressional maps on the ballot for a November 4 special election, explicitly designed to offset the proposed Texas maps and promote a more balanced national political landscape.

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