Redistricting battles brewing across the country as parties compete for power ahead of 2026 midterms
Redistricting battles heat up as Republicans and Democrats fight over congressional maps ahead of 2026 midterms in key states across the nation.
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Ahead of the rapidly approaching 2026 midterms, Republicans and Democrats in states across the country are engaged in heated redistricting battles. What started with Texas' effort to redraw its congressional map earlier in 2025 has led to other states, including California and Missouri, to do the same.
Now, redistricting battles are shaping up in Florida, Illinois, Kansas, Maryland and Virginia.
Florida
Florida Republicans are engaged in a fight over the creation of a House map that has the potential to net the GOP several seats, The Hill reported. Currently, Republicans hold 20 of Florida's 28 congressional districts.
Despite the fact that a Florida House redistricting panel has already met twice to begin the process, Gov. Ron DeSantis, R-Fla., and state Senate Republican leadership appear to be interested in holding off on the discussion until a special session in spring. However, some fear that this could be too late, as April 20 is the deadline for federal candidates to qualify and file paperwork.
Florida Republicans are also facing challenges because of language in the state's constitution that puts tight restrictions on gerrymandering, NBC News noted.
INDIANA SENATE REPUBLICANS REJECT TRUMP-BACKED REDISTRICTING PUSH, DECLINE TO MEET IN DECEMBER
Florida Republicans face challenges due to language in the state's constitution that puts tight restrictions on gerrymandering. ( Kent Nishimura/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
Illinois
Democrats could possibly pick up more seats in Illinois, but the move has gained little ground. Black lawmakers have expressed concerns that a new map could undermine minority representation, according to NBC News.
Gov. JB Pritzker, D-Ill., said his state could be forced to respond if neighboring Indiana were to move forward with its own redistricting effort. However, he later applauded Indiana when it rejected a new map.
"Our neighbors in Indiana have stood up to Trump's threats and political pressure, instead choosing to do what's right for their constituents and our democracy," Pritzker wrote on X. "Illinois will remain vigilant against his map rigging — our efforts to respond and stop his campaign are being heard."
