Post-VRA, States Redraw Maps

Southern States Redraw Congressional Districts Following Supreme Court Ruling Southern U.S. states are initiating efforts to redraw congressional districts following a Supreme Court decision on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, that weakened the Voting Rights Act. This ruling has prompted governors to call for special legislative sessions, potentially impacting the upcoming November midterm elections by altering electoral maps that previously protected against racial discrimination.

The Supreme Court's decision has accelerated a trend of mid-decade redistricting. Prior to the ruling, some states had already begun processes to redraw districts.

For example, Florida's Republican-controlled legislature, convened in a special session, passed new congressional maps designed to secure 24 of the state's 28 House seats for the Republican party. Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves announced a special legislative session 21 days after the Supreme Court decision to address redistricting, which had been on hold pending the ruling.

Louisiana, the state central to the Supreme Court's decision, is also considering new maps. Despite early voting for its May 16 congressional party primaries approaching, the state's attorney general indicated that changes are still possible.

Reports suggest Louisiana's Republican governor may postpone primary elections to implement a new map. Alabama, another state previously sued for Voting Rights Act violations, has also stated its intention to act quickly in applying the ruling to its redistricting efforts.