The Supreme Court’s recent decision to invalidate a predominantly Black congressional district in Louisiana is stirring a national debate on redistricting. This ruling has opened the door for Republican lawmakers in various states to rethink and potentially redraw voting maps, inciting significant political maneuvering ahead of the midterm elections.
Louisiana has put its upcoming congressional primary on hold, allowing time for the legislature to approve new U.S. House districts. Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump is urging states to expedite redistricting processes, aiming to influence the outcome of the November elections and potentially maintain Republican control in the House.
In Texas, Trump previously encouraged Republicans to redraw congressional maps to benefit the party, prompting Democrats in California to follow suit. Other states have since joined the fray, resulting in new congressional maps in eight states. This activity could increase following the Supreme Court’s decision, which has significantly weakened a key element of the federal Voting Rights Act.
Louisiana
Current House map: two Democrats, four Republicans
The scheduled early voting for Louisiana’s primaries was halted by Republican Governor Jeff Landry, who postponed the congressional primary while allowing other elections to proceed. A federal lawsuit has been filed contesting Landry’s decision, citing that numerous absentee ballots have already been mailed and returned.
A federal court panel that reviewed the case also issued an order suspending Louisiana’s congressional primary. State GOP leaders are preparing to establish new U.S. House districts and reschedule the primary before the legislative session concludes.
Alabama
Current House map: two Democrats, five Republicans
Alabama officials have requested an expedited Supreme Court review of a redistricting case appeal. A federal court ordered a new near-majority Black district, resulting in a second Black representative in the U.S. House. Alabama is challenging this map, arguing it constitutes an illegal racial gerrymander.
The state’s primary election is scheduled for May 19, but Governor Kay Ivey mentioned that Alabama is not poised for a special redistricting session at present.
Florida
Current House map: eight Democrats, 20 Republicans
Following the Supreme Court ruling, Florida’s Republican-majority Legislature approved new congressional districts, potentially adding four more GOP seats in November. Governor Ron DeSantis, who convened a special legislative session in anticipation of the court’s decision, has expressed confidence in the ruling.
In response, a constitutional amendment from 2010 prohibits district drawing that undermines minorities’ electoral power. DeSantis argues this amendment is unconstitutional, a matter expected to be settled in the courts.
Tennessee
Current House map: one Democrat, eight Republicans
Despite the end of the Tennessee legislative session, there is mounting pressure to revise congressional districts. Trump has publicly encouraged Governor Bill Lee to work on a new map to gain another Republican seat. The primary election is set for August 6.
Mississippi
Current House map: one Democrat, three Republicans
While Mississippi’s U.S. House primaries occurred in March, the Supreme Court’s decision could impact other elections. Governor Tate Reeves plans to call a special session to redraw state Supreme Court voting districts, beginning around May 20, following a previous federal court order.
Georgia
Current House map: five Democrats, nine Republicans
Voting began on April 27 for Georgia’s primaries, scheduled for May 19. Governor Brian Kemp stated it is too late to alter congressional districts for this year’s elections, but the Supreme Court’s rationale requires Georgia to revise electoral maps before the 2028 cycle.
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Associated Press writers Jeff Amy and Kim Chandler contributed to this report.
