Obama leading Democratic redistricting fundraiser in Martha's Vineyard

Former President Obama is set to appear at a Democratic redistricting group’s fundraiser next month in Martha’s Vineyard, as the party looks to go toe-to-toe with Republicans’ redistricting push in Texas.

Obama is named as a special guest on an invitation for an event hosted by former Attorney General Eric Holder, the chairman of the National Democratic Redistricting Committee (NDRC), and Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), according to an invitation obtained by The Hill and first reported by Politico.

The invitation says the dinner and discussion will benefit the NDRC and affiliated groups on Aug. 19.

Democrats are pushing for blue states to consider redrawing their House maps to offset similar efforts taking place in Texas, where President Trump has said he’s looking to pick up five House seats. 

Ohio is also redrawing its maps, which is required this year because a previous plan didn’t pass with bipartisan support in 2022. Republicans could make the maps more favorable to their party as they seek to win back seats held by Reps. Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio) and Emilia Sykes (D-Ohio).

California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) is the only Democratic governor who so far has signaled he’s open to redrawing his state's map to help his party. California uses an independent redistricting commission, however, and would have to overcome some hurdles in order for Democrats to do mid-cycle redistricting in the state.

Other Democratic-led states such as New York or New Jersey that could see similar pushes, also have redistricting commissions and would likely need to have their state constitutions amended in order for Democrats to successfully redraw maps.

The redistricting tit-for-tat could be previewing a tumultuous midterm cycle. Republicans are already bracing for an unfavorable political environment next year given the historic trends that run against the president’s party in midterm cycles.

Redistricting gains in Texas and Ohio could help cushion potential GOP losses elsewhere. '