The reality is the IAH 737 population is far bigger than needed. I suppose it's difficult for some to realize that Houston is no longer the "favorite child" of the airline.

A little background pre-merger.....

Newark domicile was shrunk and Houston grew because EWR was seen as militant and filled with trouble makers. Of course it was sold as favor to the pilots as most wanted to be home in good ol' Texas. I don't recall many in Houston complaining back then with the influx of more staffing.

Eventually this will all balance out, but again the reality is the 737 is way over staffed in Houston. Enjoy the Airbus.