Utah, Texas, California Redistricting Disputes Shape 2026 House Races

Several states are actively redrawing congressional districts ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, with significant partisan implications. In Utah, a judge ordered the redrawing of congressional maps after lawmakers bypassed a bipartisan commission, resulting in maps that favored Republicans by splitting Democratic strongholds, potentially narrowing the Republican majority in the U.S. House. Texas Governor Greg Abbott, at President Donald Trump's urging, signed a new congressional map favoring Republicans, aiming to flip five Democratic-held seats, while California Democrats are countering with a voter-approved map designed to enhance their party's prospects. California's new districts, if approved by voters, would notably alter areas such as San Diego’s 48th district, making it more favorable to Democrats and challenging incumbent Republican Rep. Darrell Issa's re-election chances. These redistricting efforts come amid ongoing partisan battles, including Democratic walkouts in Texas and legal challenges over alleged racial discrimination in the Texas map. The outcomes of these redistricting fights could influence control of the U.S. House and impact President Trump's policy agenda during his current term.