Story perspectives

Supreme Court Blocks Louisiana Map, Threatens Minority Districts

4/30/2026

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Supreme Court struck down Louisiana’s congressional map as an unconstitutional racial gerrymander in a 6-3 decision, weakening Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act.
The ruling arrived weeks before the May 16 primary, compressing the redistricting window before early voting.
Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill called the ruling seismic, noting the legislature could redraw districts for 2026 and political scientists fear the decision may let Republican-controlled states dismantle minority-majority districts.

History

Historical Context

After the 1965 Voting Rights Act required preclearance, the Supreme Court’s 5-4 decision in Shelby County v. Holder (June 25 2013) struck down Section 4(b)’s coverage formula, releasing 38 jurisdictions—including Louisiana—from federal oversight. In a 6-3 ruling in 2026, the Court again allowed Louisiana’s new congressional map, reviving concerns over minority-majority representation and prompting fresh DOJ litigation.

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Story summary

The U.S. Supreme Court struck down Louisiana’s congressional map as an unconstitutional racial gerrymander in a 6-3 decision, weakening Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act.
The ruling arrived weeks before the May 16 primary, compressing the redistricting window before early voting.
Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill called the ruling seismic, noting the legislature could redraw districts for 2026 and political scientists fear the decision may let Republican-controlled states dismantle minority-majority districts.

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