States redraw congressional districts ahead of 2026 midterms

Republicans hold a 217 to 212 majority in the House of Representatives. Officials in several states are redrawing congressional district lines outside the usual ten-year cycle.

Redistricting occurs after each census to reflect population shifts. The total number of House seats remains fixed at 435 under a 1929 law. The practice of drawing districts for political advantage has existed since the early 1800s. States typically complete new maps after census results are released.

Texas officials created five new Republican-leaning seats from its 38-member delegation. The state had gained two seats following the 2020 census. California officials approved a map that added five seats favoring Democrats. Other states have begun similar map adjustments. The changes could influence the outcome of the 2026 midterm elections and future House majorities.