A slew of potential Democratic presidential candidates are taking front-line positions in the battle over Texas and redistricting, a fight with huge implications for the midterm elections that is giving ambitious politicians a chance to show their loyalty to the party base.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) and Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker (D), who could both be heavyweights in a 2028 primary field, are both threatening to push through new congressional lines in response to Texas. Pritzker is also playing host to some of the Texas state Democrats who fled the state.

Former Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, another potential presidential candidate, lacks the kind of office that would allow him to set up a redistricting fight. But he’s making sure he’s seen on the issue and hosted a live conversation on Instagram on Monday with a Democratic representative from Texas.

The Texas redistricting battle comes as Democrats have been itching for an opportunity to show voters they can put up a fight.

For 2028 hopefuls, it’s a chance to stand out with the Democratic grassroots.

“This is an issue that may not necessarily animate the electorate, but it ignites the base and the donor community,” said former Rep. Steve Israel (N.Y.), who led the Democratic........

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