Story perspectives

Republican States Push Redistricting Ahead of 2026 Elections

10/18/2025

Summary

Story summary

Republican-led states are pursuing mid-decade redistricting to bolster congressional seats ahead of the 2026 elections.
In Kansas, GOP lawmakers are gathering signatures for a special session to redraw districts, targeting Rep. Sharice Davids (D-Kan.).
Louisiana's Supreme Court case could reshape its congressional map and weaken Black representation.
Texas and Missouri have enacted maps that may displace Democratic incumbents.
The Supreme Court's Section 2 decision could affect these redistricting efforts.

History

Historical Context

Following the 2010 U.S. census, the Republican Party leveraged its control over state legislatures to implement gerrymandering through the REDMAP initiative, reshaping congressional districts to favor Republican candidates. This manipulation, evident in states like Texas and Louisiana, raises concerns about minority representation and could significantly impact the balance of power in Congress ahead of the 2026 elections.

1 of 2

Story summary

Republican-led states are pursuing mid-decade redistricting to bolster congressional seats ahead of the 2026 elections.
In Kansas, GOP lawmakers are gathering signatures for a special session to redraw districts, targeting Rep. Sharice Davids (D-Kan.).
Louisiana's Supreme Court case could reshape its congressional map and weaken Black representation.
Texas and Missouri have enacted maps that may displace Democratic incumbents.
The Supreme Court's Section 2 decision could affect these redistricting efforts.

1 / 2