The missive was part of Newsom's response to a Trump-backed redistricting plan in Texas that could give Republicans up to five more seats in Congress. Newsom announced he would pursue a special election to redraw California's own congressional maps — an effort to offset potential GOP gains.

“Today is Liberation Day in the state of California,” Gavin Newsom proclaimed today in downtown L.A. of the legislative effort to stop Donald Trump from “rigging the system” with gerrymandering and other blows against American democracy. “I know they say don’t mess with Texas, well don’t mess with the great Golden State.” “We’ve got to …

The measure, which would appear on the ballot in the state in November if lawmakers approve it, is a response to Texas Republicans' mid-decade redistricting push.