California Democrats are moving forward with plans to potentially redraw the state's congressional maps as a response to GOP-led redistricting efforts in Texas.

Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) has said the Golden State is planning to put redistricting before voters during a special election this November, with the aim of adding several Democratic House seats to the blue stronghold.

California’s move is a direct response to redistricting efforts in Republican-led Texas, where Democratic state legislators have fled the state in a last-ditch bid to block a redraw backed by President Trump.

Here’s what to know as California moves forward:

Why is Newsom calling for a special election?

Newsom announced Friday that his state will move forward with plans to get a measure on the ballot that would, if approved by voters during a special election, let Democrats pass a new House map.

California state lawmakers are out for summer recess, with plans to return on Aug. 18. They’re expected to take up the matter as soon as they return, as they’re up against a deadline to make a November special election official.

“We have ’til Aug. 22nd. With the leadership behind me, they will get this on the ballot,” the governor said.

Newsom needs to call a special election to move forward because California, unlike Texas, has a bipartisan commission that is responsible for........

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