In a move that’s already stirring legal and political waves, Texas House Bill 4—dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Map” by its supporters—is poised to reshape the state’s congressional landscape. Passed by the Texas Legislature and now awaiting Governor Greg Abbott’s signature, HB4 redraws district boundaries in a way that could significantly shift the balance of power ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

Supporters, including Lt. Governor Dan Patrick and Rep. Cody Vasut, hail the bill as a fulfillment of promises to better reflect Texans’ voting preferences. “I promised we would get this done, and delivered on that promise,” Abbott stated, emphasizing the bill’s intent to align district maps with Republican gains.

But critics argue the bill is anything but neutral.

A coalition of 13 Texas voters has filed a federal complaint, alleging HB4 unlawfully dilutes minority representation. The lawsuit claims the new maps “pack and crack” communities of color—especially in Harris County and the Houston area—limiting their ability to elect candidates of their choice. The National Redistricting Foundation is backing the challenge, calling the bill “an even more extreme racial gerrymander.”

The stakes are high. With Republicans currently holding 25 of Texas’ 38 congressional seats, HB4 could add five more GOP seats to the U.S. House, potentially tipping the national balance. Democrats, meanwhile, have fought the bill with quorum breaks and public protests, calling the overnight passage “disgraceful” and warning of long-term consequences for democratic representation.

Beyond the political theater, HB4 raises deeper questions about fairness, identity, and the future of Texas democracy. Who gets to draw the lines—and who gets left behind?

As legal challenges mount and the ink dries on new maps, Texans across the state are watching closely. For communities in our area and beyond, the ripple effects of HB4 could shape not just elections, but the very nature of civic engagement.