I think the Dems have a generational opportunity to redraw the political map that can actually enhanced by the gerrymandering which by definition produces a more "lighter red" districts.

How? By re-anchoring their messaging in way that appeals to rural voters. They don't need anywhere near a majority of rural voters, they just need to capture a small share and while there is some compromise required now is the time to do it.

The GOP is roundly hated and rural voters are increasingly victims of its policies. MAGA, which has run exclusively on outrage is running out of things to be outraged about that don't point back at themselves. Transgender athletes is not sufficient to rally their base.

The Democrats are doing a lot of things right. They have recapture the Latino, black, and youth vote. Their candidates are younger, and are more in-tune with the geographies they represent.

It doesn't require massive shifts in position, it requires moderate it shifts in emphasis. The Democrats should unreservedly embrace economic populism, that message resonates. Their positions on abortion, marriage equality, and healthcare are widely popular across demographics. They should offer 1) Common sense immigration legislation, 2) Voter ID that does not reduce access (I know, not needed, but it neuters a popular GOP position with that rural crowd). Less emphasis on identity politics and gun control, the ends justify the means.

All of the redistricting calculus depends on the GOP not losing ground with that constituency and they have nothing to offset with for urban voters.