Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on Wednesday directed lawmakers to redraw the state’s congressional map as part of a special session that kicks off later this month, as the GOP seeks to retain its narrow US House majority after next year’s midterm elections.

Greg Abbott (R-TX) said the Texas legislature would concentrate on redrawing the state’s congressional maps, which heavily favor Republicans. The governor called a special session for state lawmakers to address the matter,

Greg Abbott is directing lawmakers returning to Austin this month to improve early warning systems and emergency communication in flood-prone areas and redraw the state's congressional districts in an effort to bolster Republicans in the midterms.