Story perspectives

Court Strikes VRA; GOP Gains Seats, Democrats Redraw Maps

6/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

After the Supreme Court’s Louisiana v. Callais decision removed Voting Rights Act protections, Democrats in New York, Maryland, Oregon, Illinois, Virginia, New Jersey and Washington are drafting redistricting maps to safeguard minority voting power.
Republican-appointed judges have approved 16 GOP-favored House districts versus six Democratic ones, giving Republicans a ten-seat edge for 2026 midterms.
Democrats could add 21 districts by 2028, while Maryland and Illinois leaders warn aggressive maps may dilute representation.

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Story summary

After the Supreme Court’s Louisiana v. Callais decision removed Voting Rights Act protections, Democrats in New York, Maryland, Oregon, Illinois, Virginia, New Jersey and Washington are drafting redistricting maps to safeguard minority voting power.
Republican-appointed judges have approved 16 GOP-favored House districts versus six Democratic ones, giving Republicans a ten-seat edge for 2026 midterms.
Democrats could add 21 districts by 2028, while Maryland and Illinois leaders warn aggressive maps may dilute representation.