California’s Democratic leaders of the state legislature could secure their spots in Congress if the state’s new proposed Congressional districts are approved.

Assembly Republicans officials say that California Governor Gavin Newsom's proposed special election could cost taxpayers $235 million, amidst cuts to vital services like wildfire prevention and mental health care.

Governor Gavin Newsom is moving forward with an effort to redraw congressional maps in California in response to a similar move by Texas lawmakers. Newsom on

California Democrats are rushing to schedule an election to remake U.S. House districts to counter plans to boost Republican seats in Texas.

The cost for a special election in Riverside County “typically ranges between $15 million to $16 million,” said Elizabeth Florer, a registrar’s office spokesperson. Riverside’s registrar of voters’ office, Florer added, “anticipates increased workload and will require additional resources should a special election be called.”

Gov. Gavin Newsom unveiled his plan to redraw the state’s congressional maps in response to a Republican-led effort in Texas Thursday, setting up a standoff against a coalition of opponents.

Republicans can move ahead with redrawing Texas’ congressional districts now that Democratic lawmakers have returned to the state. Efforts to thwart President Donald Trump’s push to tilt the political map for next year’s midterm elections in his favor shifted to California.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom has announced a special election Nov. 4 seeking voter approval for a new congressional map designed to counter Republican redistricting efforts in Texas and help Democrats gain additional U.