Seven States Eye Redistricting Following Texas Ahead 2026 Midterms

A contentious political battle over mid-decade congressional redistricting is intensifying across several U.S. states ahead of the 2026 midterms, with Texas leading the charge at President Donald Trump's request to help Republicans gain seats. Texas Republicans have proposed maps that split districts such as Central Texas’ 37th, currently held by a Democrat, aiming to extend Republican representation even over long distances. In response, many Texas Democrats have staged a walkout to block the redistricting vote, prompting Governor Greg Abbott to threaten their removal and enforce civil arrests. Other states including Ohio, California, Florida, Indiana, and Missouri are considering or being pressured to redraw maps, with Ohio mandated to do so by law, potentially disadvantaging Democrats like Reps. Marcy Kaptur and Emilia Sykes. California Governor Gavin Newsom is preparing for a special election to enable a new map that might net Democrats additional seats, while Republican efforts in Florida and Indiana focus on targeting vulnerable Democratic incumbents. The redistricting fight reflects a broader struggle for political control, with Democrats criticizing the timing and motives of the efforts, especially amid ongoing crises like the Central Texas floods.