WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Supreme Court ruled on April 27, 2026, that Texas may use its newly drawn congressional map, reversing a lower court decision that had invalidated the map over claims of racial gerrymandering and allowing its use through at least 2030.
The ruling overturned a November decision by a federal district court that blocked the map following legal challenges. Congressional maps are typically redrawn after each census, with the next redistricting cycle scheduled for 2030.
Texas lawmakers approved the map in August 2025 after a redistricting process conducted outside the usual census cycle. State officials said the map would improve representation and expand voter choice, while critics argued it disadvantaged minority groups.
Greg Abbott supported the map and said through a spokesperson that the Supreme Court corrected a lower court ruling and upheld a legally sound redistricting plan. State House Minority Leader Gene Wu criticized the decision, saying it upheld a map he described as discriminatory.
The redistricting effort followed concerns among Republicans about maintaining control of the U.S. House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections. The process drew public opposition, including protests at the Texas Capitol and participation in legislative hearings.
Democratic lawmakers attempted to delay the map’s passage by breaking quorum during the legislative session. Similar redistricting efforts also occurred in other states, including California, as both major political parties sought to influence congressional representation ahead of upcoming elections.
