Former President Barack Obama voiced support for Texas Democrats during a Zoom call on Thursday, denouncing Republican-led redistricting efforts as a “systematic assault on democracy.” Obama’s comments come amidst a contentious debate over the redrawing of congressional maps in Texas, with Democrats raising concerns about potential gerrymandering.

During the call with Texas House Democrats, Obama highlighted the importance of fair and transparent redistricting processes to uphold democratic principles. He emphasized the need to ensure that electoral maps accurately reflect the diverse communities within the state.

The redistricting efforts in Texas have sparked intense partisan divisions, with Republicans pushing for new maps that they argue will better represent the state’s changing demographics. On the other hand, Democrats have raised alarms about the potential for gerrymandering that could disenfranchise voters and undermine democratic norms.

In response to Obama’s remarks, a Republican official defended the redistricting efforts, stating that the proposed maps are aimed at creating more equitable representation for all Texans. The official underscored the need for balanced district boundaries that account for population shifts and demographic changes.

As the redistricting debate in Texas continues to unfold, the involvement of prominent figures like Obama underscores the national significance of this issue. The outcome of these efforts could have far-reaching implications for electoral fairness and representation in the state, shaping the political landscape for years to come.