Republicans in Texas, encouraged by President Donald Trump, catalyzed a nationwide redistricting battle with their effort to strengthen GOP control ahead of next year's elections. Texas is poised to approve a new congressional map on Wednesday that could deliver five additional seats to the GOP in the U.S. House of Representatives.

California voters backed independent redistricting for congressional seats and giving it up to counter President Trump creates a moral conflict even for Democrats.

Other Democratic lawmakers have joined a colleague in staying at the Texas Capitol rather than accept around-the-clock police escorts meant to prevent them from blocking a vote on a Republican plan for redrawing congressional districts.

Obama's comments came as efforts in Texas, encouraged by President Trump, aim to strengthen GOP control ahead of next year's elections.

The redistricting fight returned to the Texas House. Lawmakers wasted no time pressing each other on the details.

Hurricane Erin may not be forecast to make landfall, but the sprawling Category 2 storm is still going to impact much of the East Coast as it tracks north this week. On Tuesday, North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein declared a state of emergency to prepare for the life-threatening rip currents and storm surge expected to affect the coastal region.

California Governor Gavin Newsom's redistricting ballot measure has support from a majority of the state's voters, according to a new poll.Newsweek reached out to Newsom and the California GOP for comment via email.

The Texas State Capitol was cleared of visitors Tuesday evening and closed to the public after a social media threat, the Texas Department of Public Safety said.