Redistricting Debates Intensify Across Texas, Pennsylvania, Missouri Ahead 2026 Midterms

Several states, notably Texas and Missouri, are actively considering or pursuing redistricting efforts ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, sparking significant political controversy. In Texas, Republicans, backed by President Trump, are pushing a mid-decade redistricting plan designed to gain up to five additional House seats, a move criticized by Democrats and some Republicans like Rep. Mike Lawler, who called it "wrong" and plans to introduce legislation to ban gerrymandering. Texas Democrats have staged walkouts to block the redistricting, prompting threats from Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton. The Texas plan has drawn national attention and concern from leaders in states like Pennsylvania, where officials warn that such moves threaten democratic principles by rigging elections to favor one party. Missouri faces a similar conflict, with debates over splitting Democratic districts into Republican-leaning seats, a strategy criticized for disproportionately favoring Republicans beyond their voter share. Overall, these efforts reflect broader tensions about the fairness and competitiveness of congressional districts, with critics arguing they contribute to political polarization and undermine representative democracy.