LOS ANGELES (AP) \u2014 The redrawing of California\u2019s congressional map to boost Democrats\u2019 chances has left Republicans scrambling for political survival. Some are digging in for tough races, but one is considering a particularly audacious step \u2014 moving to Texas.<\/p>\n
Rep. Darrell Issa, a wealthy car alarm magnate, could make the jump from the Golden State to the Lone Star State in hopes of stretching his quarter-century in Congress at least a little bit longer.<\/p>\n
The possibility was disclosed by a person familiar with Issa\u2019s thinking, who requested anonymity to discuss private conversations.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s an extreme example of how lawmakers commonly seek greener political pastures after redistricting, and Issa\u2019s dilemma reflects an extraordinary collision between competing efforts to redraw congressional maps. Texas is trying to make itself safer for Republicans while California is trying to help Democrats in response, part of a national gerrymandering battle ahead of next year\u2019s midterm elections. <\/p>\n
Issa has moved before during his political career, trading an increasingly blue coastal district for a redder inland area east of San Diego. However, his current district has been redrawn to include the Democratic stronghold of Palm Springs after California voters passed Proposition 50 last month, making it far more difficult for Issa to be reelected. <\/p>\n